Episode 42

full
Published on:

29th Jun 2026

Quick Spoon: Three questions before you take action

We often assume that if we're not taking action, the problem must be motivation.

But what if there's more to it than that?

In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a practical framework shared by organisational psychologist Dr Joe Gray, based on the work of Professor Sharon Parker.

Before judging ourselves for not following through, Joe suggests asking three simple questions:

  • Can I do it?
  • Do I have a reason to do it?
  • Do I have the energy to do it?

Together, they offer a more compassionate and practical way of understanding what's getting in the way.

Something to Reflect On

Think about one thing you've been putting off.

Then ask yourself:

  • Can I do it?
  • Do I have a reason to do it?
  • Do I have the energy to do it?

Which answer reveals the real barrier?

Listen to the Full Episode

Powering Workplace Proactivity with Dr Joanne Gray

Transcript

QS4 3 questions

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[00:00:10] This is Sharon Parker's work. I refer to it often, and I refer to it for myself often. Hi there, and [00:00:20] welcome to People Soup Quick Spoon. Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human I'm Ross McIntosh, and here's your Quick Spoon.

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[00:00:51] Can do, do I have the skills, confidence, support, and permission? [00:01:00] Reason to, does this matter to me? And energized to, do I actually have the energy right now? Missing any one of these can [00:01:10] stop action. and importantly, that doesn't mean you've failed.

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About the Podcast

People Soup
Real conversations about work, leadership and being human
A podcast exploring work, leadership, and being human through real conversations — grounded in behavioural science and full of practical ideas you can apply straight away.

About your host

Profile picture for Ross McIntosh

Ross McIntosh

I'm a work psychologist. I want to help you navigate the daily challenges of work by sharing behavioural science in a way that's accessible, useful and fun.
I'm originally from Northumberland in the UK and I now live near Seville in Spain with my husband.