Close the knowing-doing gap

How often do you find yourself trapped in the endless cycle of knowing what to do, yet struggling to actually do it?

It's a common predicament many of us face in various aspects of our lives, whether it's adopting healthier habits, pursuing our passions, or achieving our business goals. The gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it can be vast, but it's not insurmountable.

In this episode of It’s Your Business brought to you by the #BoldBusinessPodcast, we explore strategies to bridge this gap and turn knowledge into action.

Understanding the Knowing-Doing Gap

In our daily lives, we often find ourselves on autopilot, repeating the same routines and behaviors without much thought. These habits, whether good or bad, shape our lives in profound ways. From the moment we wake up to the moment we go to bed, our habits influence our productivity, health, and overall well-being, as well as the profitability and value creation in our business.

Very often, we possess the knowledge and information necessary to make a huge impact through our business ventures, yet struggle to translate that knowledge into action. This dissonance between knowing and doing can be frustrating and, at times, paralyzing.

Breaking Down Barriers

So, what prevents us from bridging this gap? Fear of failure, lack of motivation, procrastination, and self-doubt are just a few common barriers that stand in our way as business owners. Additionally, the sheer abundance of information available today can lead to analysis paralysis, where we become overwhelmed by options and fail to take action.

The Power of Implementation Intentions

One effective strategy for overcoming the knowing-doing gap is the use of implementation intentions. This involves specifying when, where, and how you will take action to achieve your goals. By creating a concrete plan and setting specific goals, you reduce the cognitive load of decision-making and increase the likelihood of follow-through. Try this: think of one action you know will have a significant impact on your ability to hit your business and financial goals. Make the key decisions, assemble the necessary resources, and take action.

Embracing Imperfect Action

Another key mindset shift is embracing the concept of imperfect action. Perfectionism often paralyzes us, preventing us from taking any action until conditions are ideal. However, the reality is that conditions will never be perfect, and waiting for the "right" moment only delays progress. Instead, taking imperfect action, even if it's small steps or rough drafts, moves us closer to our goals and builds momentum over time. Try this: pick one thing off your to-do list and do it before the end of the day. Check it off your list.

Accountability and Support

Seeking accountability and support can also bolster our efforts to bridge the knowing-doing gap. Whether you decide to share your goals with a peer, join a business coaching group, post them on social media, or work 1:1 with a coach or mentor, external accountability can provide the motivation and encouragement we need to stay on track. Try this: As Quentin Ortega would say, find your accountabilibuddy to get where your business is today to where you want it to be - faster.

Celebrating Progress

Finally, celebrating progress, no matter how small, is crucial for sustaining motivation and momentum. Acknowledge your efforts and achievements along the way, and don't be too hard on yourself when setbacks occur. Remember, it's not about perfection but progress. Try this: Celebrate the thing you chose to do and checked off your to-do list. Yay! It’s done!

Conclusion

Bridging the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it requires intentional effort and mindset shifts. By breaking down barriers, creating implementation intentions, embracing imperfect action, seeking accountability and support, and celebrating progress, we can overcome inertia and move closer to realizing our aspirations. So, what are you waiting for? Take that first step today and start turning knowledge into action.

Purpose First Advisors specializes in helping business owners turn business desires into measurable results. Let us help you build, grow and exit your business  on purpose, with purpose.