You know, “The beginning is always now” is one of those simple lines that completely reframes how you approach your work and life. It’s about ditching the idea that you need a perfect moment to start and realizing that the power to begin is always in your hands, right this second.
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Meaning
The core message is brutally simple: you don’t need to wait for the right time, the right mood, or perfect conditions. The right time is literally now.
Explanation
Look, we’ve all been there. You have a big project and you think, “I’ll start on Monday,” or “I need a clear desk and three free hours.” That’s just procrastination in a fancy costume. What David Allen is telling us is that the only moment you ever truly have control over is the present one. The past is gone, the future isn’t here, but you can always make a decision, take one tiny action, or clarify one single thought right now. It’s the ultimate antidote to that feeling of being stuck. It’s not about finishing the whole thing this instant. It’s just about starting. And you can always, always start.
Quote Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Category | Spiritual (229) |
| Topics | action (112), beginning (9), present moment (2) |
| Literary Style | minimalist (442), poetic (635) |
| Emotion / Mood | calm (491), hopeful (357) |
| Overall Quote Score | 75 (124) |
Origin & Factcheck
This gem comes straight from David Allen’s 2001 productivity bible, Getting Things Done. It’s a cornerstone of his GTD methodology, born out of his work coaching professionals in the US. You sometimes see similar sentiments floating around, but this specific, powerful phrasing is uniquely his.
Attribution Summary
| Context | Attributes |
|---|---|
| Author | David Allen (50) |
| Source Type | Book (4032) |
| Source/Book Name | Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity (50) |
| Origin Timeperiod | 21st Century (1892) |
| Original Language | English (3668) |
| Authenticity | Verified (4032) |
Author Bio
David Allen created the GTD methodology and helped millions organize work and life with clear, actionable steps. He began as a management consultant, refined GTD through client engagements, and published Getting Things Done in 2001, followed by Ready for Anything and Making It All Work. He founded the David Allen Company and expanded GTD training globally, later relocating to Amsterdam to support international growth. A sought-after speaker and advisor, he remains a leading voice on clarity, focus, and execution. Explore the David Allen book list for essential reads.
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Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | The beginning is always now |
| Book Details | Publication Year/Date: 2001; ISBN/Unique Identifier: 978-0143126560; Last edition: Revised edition published 2015; Number of pages: 352. |
| Where is it? | Chapter 11: Mind Like Water, Approximate page 232 (2015 edition) |