“Just do it”, along with “just say no” were two sayings birthed in the 1980’s, a time when the notion of self-determination became gospel. They are great sayings in their obviousness and equally ineffective. If a person could “just do it” wouldn’t they have done it already? It’s been said “just” is a four letter word. “Just spend less” implies it’s easy. “Just a stay at home mom” suggests a small, less significant role. If you are lacking in motivation or ability to do something, insulting yourself with a just is probably not going to spur you to action.
Try this: when you start “justing” yourself and it’s not working (because hey, every once in awhile it works) try a different approach. Try the “do this and then…” technique. Do xyz for 30 minutes and then treat yourself to an episode of (insert favorite Netflix show here). Another approach is to imagine how you will feel after you have done the thing you are resisting. How will you feel after you write that article? After you file that paperwork? Rather than focusing on the discomfort of doing the task, focus on the pleasure of having finished. Instead of belittling yourself into motivation, try inspiring yourself…it’s just more effective.