The Difference Between Thinking About Doing Something and Doing Something We’re Thinking About

How often do we find ourselves endlessly thinking about doing something but never actually taking action? On the other hand, there are times when an idea pops into our heads, and we immediately act on it. These two approaches—thinking about doing something versus doing something we’re thinking about—might seem similar, but they lead to very different outcomes in life and leadership.

Thinking About Doing Something

When we’re thinking about doing something, we’re stuck in the planning phase. We weigh the pros and cons, analyze potential risks, and try to predict every possible outcome. While preparation is important, overthinking can lead to paralysis by analysis.

When we spend too much time thinking about doing something, we often:

• Wait for the “perfect” time – Spoiler alert: it never comes.

• Seek too much validation – We want approval from everyone before taking action.

• Fear failure – Hesitation creeps in because we don’t want to make mistakes.

• Get stuck in self-doubt – We question our abilities instead of trusting ourselves.

This mindset creates a cycle where action is always on the horizon but never actually happens. It feels productive because we’re “working on it” but in reality, we’re standing still.

Doing Something We’re Thinking About

On the other hand, when we do something we’re thinking about, we shift from passive contemplation to active execution. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, we move forward and figure things out along the way.

When we take action, we tend to:

• Embrace imperfection – We understand that progress is better than perfection.

• Learn through experience – Taking action teaches more than endless research ever could.

• Adapt and adjust – We refine our approach as we go instead of waiting for certainty.

• Trust our instincts – We act on our thoughts rather than doubting ourselves.

This approach builds momentum. Even if the first step isn’t perfect, it leads to real progress. Action creates confidence, while inaction breeds uncertainty.

The Key Difference

Thinking about doing something keeps us in a theoretical space where possibilities exist but nothing changes. Doing something we’re thinking about turns those possibilities into reality.

The difference is movement. One keeps us standing still, and the other moves us forward.

So, what’s something we’ve been thinking about for too long? What’s one small step we can take today to shift from thought to action?

Because the way to make the difference is to stop thinking about it and start doing something about it! Keep being THE!