Here’s the smallest way to start anything: shrink it to a 2-minute starter task. Beat the resistance, then ride the momentum.
The Move (takes 2 minutes)
- Name the starter. “Open the doc.” “Write the title.” “Pack one item.” One action only.
- Set a 2-minute timer. Phone timer is fine. Promise you’ll stop when it rings.
- Start now. No prep, no re-arranging. Do the tiny action immediately.
What usually happens
Momentum shows up. Two minutes become ten. Even if you stop at two, you’ve started, which makes the next step easier.
Why it works
- Beats friction. “Start small” bypasses fear and perfectionism.
- Instant feedback. A tiny win releases just enough dopamine to continue.
- Identity shift. You become the person who starts right away.
Tools & Resources
- Pomofocus — free browser timer (set it to 2 minutes).
- Notion or Todoist — create a “2-Minute Starts” list.
- TickTick — quick tasks + built-in timers.
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Quick Tips
- Write starters that begin with a verb (“Open…”, “Write…”, “Email…”).
- When stuck, make the starter even smaller (“Open laptop”).
- Pair with a standing rule: never skip two days.
FAQ
Will 2 minutes really help on big projects?
Yes. The point is to start. Once you begin, the next small step is obvious, and momentum carries you.
What if I stop after 2 minutes?
That still counts. Starting reduces future resistance. Most days you’ll keep going; on tough days, the streak survives.
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