subject: How To Develop Momentum [print this page] One thing that I learned from bicycle racing (actually, I am not much of a bicycle racer but I do triathlons - cycling needs work) is the power of momentum. In bicycle racing the way to do better and use less energy is to pedal very, very powerfully and hard to start with, give it 120% and once you are up to speed, you can simply maintain a good even cadence.
When I drive a car, I notice the same thing. Momentum counts. It takes little gas to keep a car at 60 MPH but lots to get up to that speed. I am not sure if getting up to speed fast in a car uses more gas overall than slow acceleration.
This method works for projects. I find if I can simply start the project fast, I can often use the momentum to carry me through to its completion. Some methods I use to do this include:
1 - Ask someone to help start. This small act often is all I need to get up to speed.
2 - Use high energy times to start tough things. High energy can help break inertia.
3 - Set an environment that you will not be disturbed. It is all about focus. Clear your desk. Close your door. Turn off your email and busy out your phone.
4 - Have clear goals and objectives. The clearer you know what you want to accomplish, the more likely you are to accomplish it.
5 - Limit the amount of time on a project. I use a timer. Just setting the timer helps me focus and helps me know that my time is limited.
6 - Be prepared. It is easier to develop and maintain momentum. It is all in the preparation.
7 - I often repeat to myself "successful people do tough things". Remember the bicycle. A few hard pushes to start make things much easier to finish with less energy.
Using these techniques for gaining momentum can help you move any project forward faster and more easily.
