One of the greatest productivity tips I’ve ever learned is just to start. Whatever daunting task lies ahead of you, the hardest part is getting started.

So start.

Even if you don’t have the energy or mental capacity to commit to the task in the moment, give yourself ten minutes. If you’re really struggling, start with five. That’s it, five minutes of focused work, and then you can walk away.

At least you tried.

The fascinating part is that keeping momentum is far easier than acceleration. Once you hit that first five minutes, you’re already moving. Another five is nothing — and next thing you know, you’re doing the work.

I’ve experienced this dozens of times simply writing these daily blogs. Whether I’m tired, sick or believe that I don’t have the time to commit to writing, I force myself to start. Just one sentence. And soon enough, I have — at the very least — a shitty first draft.

Something is better than nothing.

Regardless of the task at hand, you’ll be surprised at how well this technique works.

Just start.