The Flywheel Effect

The people who said, “Follow your passion” didn’t quite get it right.

When we follow our passion or set out to do something, we have a certain image in our mind. Usually the “ideal version” of that thing.

New entrepreneurs go through this all the time. There’s the dream of starting something new. Something that will change the world. Something that will change the business owner’s life.

And then there’s the reality that 90% of the work won’t be like that.

It will be problem-solving on a daily basis, and a fair number of repetitive tasks. At least as it’s getting off the ground.

It’s the same with piano. We all have this image in the beginning. One where we’re having fun, playing our hearts out.

And then, the reality sets in. Working through the hard parts. Repetitive practice. The parts they don’t show you in the movies.

The two don’t quite align. And passion doesn’t just appear and make us motivated.

But passion can be stoked by practicing and taking action first.

In order to start up what’s called the flywheel effect.

It works like this.

Just do the work. Practice. Write. Paint. Whatever. Stick with it, even (and especially if) you don’t feel like it.

Inevitably, you’ll see some results. And when you see those results, you’ll get excited. You may even get passionate.

That excitement and passion then make you want to practice more. More practice equals more progress, which fuels more passion. One feeds the other.

You’re moving the giant flywheel.

Imagine it. A giant flywheel you’re trying to rotate on its axle.

It takes some time to get started. The flywheel is heavy and takes some effort to get moving.

But once you gain momentum, nothing can stop it. Practice becomes easier. Excitement abounds.

It’s a beautiful cycle.

Long as you know how to get it started.