When Overthinking Becomes Your Biggest Obstacle

Episode Description

In this energetic episode, Scott Smith shares a powerful lesson he learned during his days as a radio host that has become one of his most quoted pieces of advice. With his trademark blend of humor and straight talk, Scott tackles the common tendency to get stuck in preparation mode – what he calls “fixing to get ready.”

Drawing from a memorable call he received while hosting a Saturday night radio show, Scott reveals how many of us waste valuable time overthinking, researching, and planning when we should be taking action. He challenges listeners to recognize their stalling and offers practical wisdom on breaking free from this pattern.

Whether you’re building a business, pursuing a passion, or simply trying to progress toward a goal, this episode provides the motivation to stop preparing and start moving forward – even when the path ahead isn’t perfectly clear.

Featured Story

During his days hosting a popular radio show called “70s Saturday Night,” Scott received a call from a woman who said she was “fixing to get ready” to go out. When asked what that meant, she explained she was thinking about what to wear, whether it needed ironing, if her date would like it – essentially wasting time because she had time to waste. This chance conversation became a powerful metaphor for Scott, as it showed how people spend too much time thinking, pondering, and worrying instead of taking action toward their goals.

Key Takeaways

“Fixing to get ready” is the state of perpetual preparation that prevents real progress
Clarity is what separates those who achieve their goals from those who don’t
Not knowing what to do next is the #1 thing that stops people from getting what they want
Having a clear roadmap or framework eliminates the tendency to stall in preparation mode
There’s a time and place for “fixing to get ready” moments, but living there permanently leads to stagnation
If you don’t know your purpose, your purpose is to find your purpose
You can’t get to where you want to go from where you are with the same mindset
The moment you start moving forward, you begin transforming into a different person
Don’t buy into the myth that success comes easily or without hard work
Everything you want is somewhere down the road, not where you are today

Memorable Quotes

“Don’t buy into the myth that life is easy. If you want anything, you must lay the groundwork and work hard.”

“If you don’t know your purpose, your purpose is to find your purpose.”

“The sooner you start moving, the sooner you get what you want.”

Scott’s Three-Step Approach

Recognize When You’re Stalling: Be honest with yourself when you’re in “fixing to get ready” mode instead of taking action
Figure Out the Next Step: Even if you’re not completely clear on the entire path, identify just the following action you need to take
Move Forward Anyway: Take action even without perfect clarity, knowing that movement creates momentum and clarity will develop along the way

Connect With Scott

Search for The Daily Boost on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Email: support@motivationtomove.com