“I Know What to Do… I’m Just Not Doing It” – Here’s How to Fix That
- Stuart McLay
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
Ever felt like you’ve got the plan, you know what works, and yet… you’re still not following through?
You’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
In fact, this is one of the most common hurdles I see in people trying to lose weight, get fit, or feel better in themselves. They say:
🧠 “I know what to eat.”💪 “I know I should move more.”📅 “I even planned my week out…”
But still—nothing changes.
😩 Why Is It So Hard to Do the Things You Know Are Good for You?
Let’s be real—this isn’t about information.
You don’t need another meal plan.You don’t need to hear “move more, eat less” again.
What’s really happening is something deeper: ambivalence. You want change—but you also crave the comfort of what’s familiar.
It sounds like:
“I should go to the gym… but I’m tired and the couch is calling.”
“I want to feel better… but I also want to switch off.”
“I know what to do… but something’s stopping me.”
That inner tug-of-war? It’s keeping you stuck.
🧠 Step 1: Stop Beating Yourself Up
You’re not lazy. You’re likely overwhelmed, exhausted, or burned out. Show yourself compassion first. That’s not fluff—it’s step one toward real change.
🔍 Step 2: Get Curious, Not Critical
Instead of spiraling into shame, ask:
✅ What benefit am I getting from avoiding this action?
✅ What’s it costing me to stay where I am?
✅ What’s one thing that would make action feel easier right now?
Let’s say you’re deciding between staying on the couch or going to the gym. Instead of judging yourself, weigh the trade-offs like this:
Staying on the couch feels easy, comfortable, and relaxing in the moment. But afterward, you might feel stuck, disappointed, or guilty for not moving forward on your goals.
Going to the gym might feel tough at first—it takes energy, time, and effort. But it boosts your mood, builds momentum, and gets you closer to the future you want.
This isn’t about forcing yourself—it’s about making a conscious choice that serves the person you want to become.
💡 Step 3: Align with Who You Want to Become
Discipline isn’t the secret sauce. Identity is.
Ask yourself:
Who am I becoming?
What does that version of me choose today?
What do I need to believe to support that choice?
Action follows identity. And it starts with one decision, not perfection.
⚡ Step 4: Use This Decision-Making Toolkit
Here’s what successful clients use when they feel stuck:
✅ Reconnect with your “why”
✅ Set values-based goals, not just number goals
✅ Picture the long-term benefit
✅ Be honest about the cost of staying stuck
It’s about conscious choice over emotional reactivity.
💬 Final Thought: Action Creates Clarity
You don’t need a total life overhaul. You need one aligned step today.
📅 Ready to Break the Cycle?
Let’s talk.
If you're stuck in “I know what to do but I’m not doing it” mode, I help clients get unstuck—for good. Together, we’ll uncover what’s really blocking you and create a sustainable path forward.
📞 [Book a Free Brainstorm Session → Click Here]
✨ Get clarity, compassion, and a plan that actually fits your life.
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