The 2-Minute Task That Helps You Finally Get Started
Photo by Emanuela Picone on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
You know that feeling. You’ve got a project that’s been sitting on your mental to-do list for way too long.
It’s not that you don’t care about it. You do. You actually want to get started.
But instead of starting, you keep pushing it to tomorrow. Or next week. Or “once I have a full afternoon free” (which, let’s be honest, may never happen).
The truth is: starting is often the hardest part.
Not because the project is impossible. But because it’s big. Vague. Unformed. You don’t know where to begin, so you don’t.
But here’s one of my favorite little tricks: find a 2-minute task.
Just one. That’s it.
Getting Started
What’s a 2-Minute Task?
It’s a simple action that helps you step toward the project, without needing to dive in all at once.
Something that tells your brain, “Hey, we’re doing this. Gently.”
A few favorites from my own life and the clients I work with:
Want to pack for a trip? Bring the suitcase up from the basement and set it by your bed before you leave for work. That’s it.
Need to work on a blog post? Open your Notes app or Evernote and create a new file. Give it a title.
Preparing for a meeting? Jot down three questions you want to ask.
Have a presentation coming up? Create a new PowerPoint file. Save it with the name of the talk.
Need to do your homework later? Pull out your textbook and notebook, and set them on your desk before dinner.
These tasks don’t take long. But they matter. They help you start, without starting all the way.
They say: “Hey, project. I see you. I’m coming.”
Why This Works
It sounds too simple, right?
But here’s the thing: when something feels overwhelming, it’s usually not because of the task itself. It’s because of the emotional weight we attach to it.
We think we need to start perfectly. Or have a big stretch of time. Or be fully ready.
And when we can’t meet those conditions, we wait.
The 2-minute task works because it lowers the bar. It says, “Let’s just crack the door open.”
Once the suitcase is upstairs, it’s easier to start packing. Once the PowerPoint file is saved, it’s easier to type your presentation ideas in a slide and build it out. Once the textbook is on the desk, sitting down to read it feels... doable.
Progress Counts, Even When It’s Small
You don’t have to finish the whole thing right now. You just have to move forward, even a little.
And the truth is, once you take that first 2-minute step, you might just feel ready to take the next.
Or not. That’s okay too. Because the magic is in getting unstuck, not in rushing to done.
So if there’s something you’ve been avoiding, or something that’s quietly weighing on you, try this:
Ask yourself: What’s a 2-minute task that would make starting easier later? Then… go do it.
Because small steps count. They add up. And sometimes, all you need to do is move just enough to change the story from “I haven’t started” to “I’m in motion.”
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.