WCWB Blog

June 25, 2025

THE TRAP OF NOT "DOING"

Action is Everything in Business

How many of us put things off over and over then years go by and we feel even less motivated than when we started? How many keep talking about the same subject but nothing ever comes of it? Success doesn’t begin with a perfect plan—it begins with doing. While research, strategy, and vision are critical components of business and personal achievement, the most overlooked and powerful driver of progress is taking consistent, INTENTIONAL ACTION. In a world where people often get stuck in “analysis paralysis,” those who succeed are the ones who decide to ACT—even when things aren’t perfect. Doing is what separates dreamers from doers. We all get tired of others and ourselves when nothing gets done.

According to a study by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, over 27 million working-age Americans are starting or running new businesses at any given time, yet only a fraction of ideas ever make it off the whiteboard. The barrier isn’t always funding or resources—it’s execution. Many aspiring entrepreneurs spend months, even years, perfecting a business plan but never take the leap to test their product or service in real life. But momentum builds through doing. When you test, launch, or even fail, you're still moving forward—and every action creates feedback and learning that no amount of theory can replace.

Doing also builds confidence. Psychology research from the University of California found that people who take small, incremental steps toward their goals experience a rise in motivation and self-efficacy. This is especially crucial in entrepreneurship, where self-doubt and imposter syndrome are common. You don’t need all the answers to begin—you just need to begin. Whether it’s registering your business, launching a landing page, or calling your first customer, these small acts of execution create a ripple effect of progress.

Additionally, doing helps overcome fear. Fear thrives in inactivity and uncertainty, but action disrupts fear. A report by the Small Business Administration (SBA) shows that more than 50% of small business owners felt unsure or overwhelmed in their first year. Yet, those who pushed through and did the work—even imperfectly—were more likely to succeed. Action creates clarity, while inaction magnifies doubt. Every step forward, no matter how messy, brings you closer to your goal.

In the end, your success will be measured not by what you planned, but by what you did. Ideas are abundant—execution is rare. Whether you're launching a business, changing careers, or pursuing a personal goal, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Sometimes we have to tell ourselves, "you WILL do this right now." An Entrepreneur learns the skill of self-discipline quickly because the "doing" is what will carry you across the finish line.

Here are 5 ways to start “doing” today instead of just talking about it:

Set a 24-hour action rule – Anytime you have an idea, take at least one action toward it within 24 hours, no matter how small.
Break big goals into bite-sized tasks – Turn “Start my business” into “Buy domain name” or “Register my LLC.” Start with what you can control.
Schedule execution time, not just planning time – Block off time on your calendar solely for taking real action, like making calls or building content.
Share your progress, not just your plans – Tell people what you did, not just what you want to do. It builds accountability and momentum.
Accept imperfect action – Don’t wait for the perfect logo, pitch, or plan. Just start. You can refine as you go—movement beats perfection every time.

Written by: Washington Center for Women in Business