“A body at rest stays at rest. A body in motion stays in motion.”
This isn’t just a physics lesson; it’s a leadership lesson.
Inertia is real.
In our teams.
In our meetings.
In our change initiatives.
We’ve all felt the weight of an idea that never leaves the brainstorm session.
The strategy that is stuck in PowerPoint.
The team that’s waiting for clarity, direction or a little spark.
Once we get going, things feel easier.
Momentum builds.
Ideas start to move.
One small win leads to another, and the energy shifts.
Getting started is where most teams struggle.
That’s the Law of Inertia at work.
Movement Matters
Movement is about more than progress.
It creates hope, possibility, and connection.
Even small shifts like a new conversation, a fresh agenda, or a pilot can pull a team out of neutral.
But it doesn’t happen by accident.
Teams don’t just “get moving.”
Someone must make the first move.
And once things are in motion, it’s just as important to protect the momentum.
Keep things going without burning everyone out.
A Simple Way to Get Teams Moving: The M.O.V.E. Framework
Let’s borrow from physics and add personal touch. Here’s a way to help your team build momentum and sustain it.
M – Micro-Step: Don’t wait for the perfect kickoff. Start small. Choose one thing to move forward. Send an email, make a decision, schedule a conversation. Small steps create movement.
O – Obstacles: Name what’s in the way. Unclear priorities? Decision fatigue? Fear of failure?
Talking about the blockers gives the team power to overcome them.
V – Vision: Momentum without direction is just motion. Reconnect to the “why.” Why does this work matter? Why now? Why us? This is especially valuable to keep momentum when in motion.
E – Energy: This isn’t just about pushing forward. It’s about sustaining team energy by honoring rest, celebrating progress, and making space for creativity. Motion doesn’t have to mean team exhaustion. Sometimes the best way to keep moving is to pause, reflect, and refuel.
My Perspective
I’ve seen teams stall and I’ve seen the incredible impact of a small spark.
Getting into motion isn’t about force.
It’s about intention.
And once you’re moving, it’s about staying in motion without burning out.
The Law of Inertia might be science.
Putting into play at work is leadership.
Your Turn
Have you seen the Law of Inertia at play on your team?
Do you struggle more with the start or the momentum?
What role can you play to promote motion?