How to Get the Things You’re Avoiding Done

Episode 183 of the Extraordinary Creatives podcast, hosted by Ceri Hand, titled "How to Get the Things You’re Avoiding Done" was published on February 19, 2026 and runs 9 minutes.

February 19, 2026 ·9m · Extraordinary Creatives

Summary

Today, Ceri talks to those of you who know exactly what they need to do but still can’t quite bring themselves to do it. Not because you don’t care. Not because you’re incapable. But because the task feels loaded.  It might be an email you keep rewriting. A proposal you keep circling. A conversation you know you need to have. You stay busy. You prepare. You research. You tweak. And somehow the hardest thing never quite gets done. It’s a common experience for so many of the artists Ceri works with. So, you only need to listen in to find out how to get the things you´re avoiding done. KEY TAKEAWAYS We tend to think prioritising is a logical skill. Decide what matters most. Do that first - In real life, especially in creative work, prioritisation is emotional. When a task carries emotional weight, the brain treats it differently. When you avoid a task, it’s rarely about laziness - it’s your nervous system protecting you from something that feels risky.   You don’t need more discipline; you need systems that fit your brain: visible time slots, clear steps, templates, and processes to follow. The fewer decisions you have to make, the better. Separating thinking from doing and working alongside others makes emotionally heavy tasks feel doable, not overwhelming.   BEST MOMENTS “Difficulty prioritising isn't about knowing what matters. It's about regulation. Attention, emotion, and effort are linked.” “Make time visible. Short defined time blocks with a timer help counter the feeling that a task is endless. When time is visible, the brain can relax.” “Separate thinking from doing.” “Use a shared presence, working alongside someone else, even silently, helps many people stay anchored. This is often called body doubling.” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She has sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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