The Power of Taking Massive Action
I recently had a major lightbulb moment that shifted my entire perspective on action and success. It came from listening to Brooke Castillo on The Life Coach School Podcast. She broke down the difference between passive action and massive action. Honestly, it blew my mind.
For years, I’ve been labeled as "action-oriented." I’ve embraced it because, let’s face it, I’m quick to make decisions, I execute plans, and I don’t get bogged down in what-ifs. But here’s the kicker: I realized I’ve been living in the realm of passive action more than I’d like to admit.
Passive Action vs. Massive Action
Let’s break it down.
A massive action taker doesn’t wait for perfection. She moves forward boldly, pivots when needed, and refines as she goes. Think of it like the agile business method—launch, learn, adjust.
On the flip side, a passive action taker consumes. She researches, reads, collects ideas, and prepares endlessly. But instead of executing, she stays in the "learning" stage, seeking validation from all the information she’s gathered.
Both types of action have their place, but here’s the thing: too much passive action can hold you back. I’ve been there. My inbox is overflowing with articles, webinars, and newsletters—all for a workshop I’m planning. But deep down, I already know what I want to share. I don’t need to keep consuming. I need to start creating. It doesn’t have to be perfect—I can tweak and improve as I go. My material is ready. And honestly? So am I.
Redefining Success
This realization got me thinking about success and how so many of us define it. In my coaching sessions, I see this all the time. People either don’t know what success looks like for them, or they view it as a destination—the end result.
Here’s the truth: success isn’t a final achievement. It’s the journey and the small wins along the way. Steven Pressfield captures it perfectly: *"Nothing else matters but sitting down every day and trying."
If your goal is to start a business, get a promotion, or write a book, success isn’t just reaching that milestone. It’s everything you do to get there—the late-night brainstorming sessions, the awkward first drafts, the courses you take, and the risks you embrace.
For example, if you’re aiming for a promotion, success isn’t just landing the job. It’s learning new skills, networking, shadowing someone in the role, and nailing the interview. Whether or not you get the job, those actions move you forward. THAT is a success.
A Real-Life Example
My daughter is a shining example of this. She decided to pursue a marketing degree long after high school, while juggling a career, raising a child, and attending school full-time. It would’ve been easy to say, "I’ll be successful when I get my degree." But her real success lies in the perseverance, the late nights, and the unwavering focus she’s shown over the past three and a half years. Walking across that stage will be a proud moment, but it’s her journey that defines her success.
The Danger of Complacency
If success is your journey, complacency is your biggest roadblock. Worse than passive action is no action. Settling for less than you desire because you feel stuck? That’s not your story—unless you let it be.
The shift begins with your thoughts. When you choose thoughts rooted in possibility, your emotions shift too. You go from feeling defeated to feeling inspired. And when you feel better, you do better. Remember: You are capable. You are enough. You are in charge of your destiny.
Your Call to Action
What’s your big dream? Do you want to write a book, change careers, start a business, or build a network? Take a hard look at your current actions. Are they passive or massive?
Massive action doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small. Do one thing every day that moves you closer to your goal. When that becomes second nature, add another. Consistency is the key. Keep moving forward. And remember—there’s no plan B for your A game.
Success isn’t a destination. It’s every step you take on your journey. So, take that step today.
