…a popular phrase — Just Do It. We all know that it started with Nike. And now all self-help gurus in one way or another are pushing it upon us.
What you probably don’t know, the inspiration for Nike’s slogan came from Gary Gilmore’s (American murderer) last words before his execution in 1977: “Let’s do it.”
Don’t get me wrong. I love Nike shoes. I buy them. I wear them. Still believe that “just do it” is a piece of destructive and harmful advice. Here’s why.
Necessary but not sufficient
We are not stupid. We understand that only action creates results. O-b-v-i-o-u-s-l-y.
But it is not a complete strategy for success. If you want something, no matter how badly, but still not taking action, you can say this mantra all day long. It won’t help. Either something wrong with your goal. Or there are fears, concerns, or other limitations you need to deal with.
Either way, you should do some deep digging and self-reflection in order to move forward.
Lazy or tired?
Hassle culture pushes us to do more. Faster, higher, stronger. But what if you need to rest? We often judge ourselves too harshly. The perfectionist in us says that we are not doing enough. So if we are tired, exhausted, even not physically but emotionally, we need to stop! Rest and restore. Saying to yourself “Just Do It” in such cases is just like wiping yourself only to get more tired or filled with shame and regret.
“Fast food” motivation
I call it “fast food” because just like fast food it gets you hungry quickly and it is addictive. Yes, it is readily available. Yes, it gives you a quick dopamine boost. But it is definitely not a healthy and not sustainable source of motivation. The only sustainable type is intrinsic motivation that comes from within!
Let’s not be dramatic here. Occasionally, we can eat at McDonald’s or get inspiration from a cheesy motivational slogan.
Just don't make it a habit!
