This time of year, it seems like everywhere I turn I’m being encouraged to “Spring into action!” Whether I’m supposed to get a jump on a mattress sale, clean out my closet, or start a new marketing campaign . . . the message is loud and clear, and it can feel a little daunting.

I don’t know about you, but after the Holidays have passed, the new year is in motion, and the beach starts to beckon to me, I find myself more ready to rest than to reach for new goals. If it weren’t for those pesky bills and responsibilities, it could be pretty easy to pack up and head for an extended Spring break!

So what are we to do when perpetual “Spring Fever” sets in? Allow me to share a few tips that may just put the spring back in your step.

Tip 1: Take some inventory & clean out the clutter. One of the things that can drag us down when trying to move forward are (literally) the things that are holding us back. Whether you need to clean off your desk, tie up loose ends, or make amends with a co-worker, it starts with one step in the right direction. Once you stop thinking in terms of “I need to do something,” and start thinking in terms of “I’m doing it,” you might find it a little easier to clean up old business and make room for something new and more energizing.

Tip 2: Stop getting ready to get ready. One of my mentors has drilled this into my brain, and it’s one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever put to use: When it’s been weeks, months or years, and you’re still preparing to get ready to get going on a project or issue, something’s going on.

These outstanding issues can drag you down and drain you of energy. In this case, it’s time to figure out why you’re hedging and either take action or take it off your list.

Are you waiting indefinitely for others to do their part? Or, maybe you’re waiting until things are perfect before you can move forward? Either scenario can put you in limbo indefinitely. What to do then?

1) Summarize your end goal (target) and decide whether it’s really something you still want and/or need to do

2) Break your activity into smaller steps and identify the road block (where & why are you held up?)**

3) Look for an alternate route

4) Take aim, and “pull the trigger!”

**If you find that you just can’t get motivated, or you are simply “stuck,” maybe it’s time to enroll the help of a trusted friend or coach. Sometimes it just takes help from someone else to regain perspective, come up with a new plan, give you a little push in the right direction, and keep you on target.

When you change your approach and take steps in the right direction, you may free yourself up from the daily drain of inactivity.

Tip 3: Give it a rest! Sometimes I get so focused on being productive and making the most of my work day, I neglect to give myself permission to take a “time-out” at some point in the day.

If you’re always “going,” (and by that I mean working, running errands, tending to everyone else, etc.) your mind doesn’t have a chance to rest, recharge, or often even process what you’ve accomplished or committed to doing next. No wonder you’re ready to head for Spring break!

Sometimes my best ideas and motivation to “spring into action” come from making myself take a walk, lay in the hammock, talk to a friend, or stand in the shower to clear my head. I’m amazed at how I can go from totally stressed out one minute – to ready to spring back 30 minutes later, when I allow myself time to process my progress and gain new perspective.

Take one step at a time, and bring a little bliss and balance into your everyday, and I’m willing to bet you’ll spring back to life in no time!

Activate Potential. Realize Results.™

©2011 Actualize Consulting Group. All rights reserved. Permission granted to excerpt or reprint with notification and attribution.