I'm smarter than this! What's wrong with me???

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I spend my days coming up with the most amazing, revolutionary ideas imaginable. I have everything planned down to the finest detail. I go home excited to begin on my project, but the moment I walk into my house, all my motivation evaporates. I know I am better than this, but I just can't seem to get started on the things I want to do. For example, I want to learn how to program but when I get home after a day of dreaming about the most amazing applications, I turn my laptop on and go to youtube and hulu. Then I turn my mind off and start the process anew the next morning. How can I get out of this rut? I know that inertia works both ways and once I'm going, I'll stay going I'm just having a problem getting started. Help?

You seem to be looking for any cause other than your own lack of initiative.

Stop dreaming, stop worrying, and just do it.

I recognize your situation. I often have big plans which evaporate the moment I have the time to execute them.

I think what happens with me is that the plan becomes this huge project which, viewed as a single endeavor, is way too complicated and difficult to do. But if I break the project down into little pieces, I can usually accomplish the parts of it without getting overwhelmed.

I also have to accept a certain degree of frustration as I work on a project and encounter stumbling blocks. I am learning that I can usually solve the problems I run into and that I shouldn't give up simply because I have a temporary set back.

Sometimes it is discouraging having to face doing the mundane, little tasks that go into accomplishing the bigger project. There are a number of things that need to be done in any project that aren't fun. My reluctance to do some of these things has prevented me from accomplishing the bigger project, but growing older, I have learned to have the patience to do some of the boring stuff. For example, I am currently teaching myself furniture building. Sweeping sawdust off the floor isn't the most exciting aspect of the craft, but it has to be done.

Anyway, those are my thoughts on the subject. I hope some of this helps.

Lars

Is it possible your real world situation just falls short of the grander vision you have in your mind?

I have a tendency toward All Or Nothing thinking. I might also have an idea but if I'm dissatisfied with the working conditions or equipment I might just drop it.

Also how many obstacles are there between yourself and pursuing a regular study? If there is anything as simple as a noisy or distracting environment I think that can be really discouraging. What is sought is a direct line between yourself and your goal and if you see to much crap in the way it's easy to dismiss the whole thing.