get started

You can use it alone as a command or with on or with to name the task. If you have a pile of laundry, you get started on the washing. If you're in a meeting, you get started with the agenda. It is very flexible with tenses. You can say 'I'm getting started' or 'Let's get started.' Just don't forget the d at the end of started!

Use it when you want to sound motivated. It’s perfect for the office when a meeting should begin. It’s great at home when you finally tackle those dishes. Use it when texting a friend to say you are finally working. It works in almost any situation where action is required. It sounds proactive and energetic.

Avoid using it for instantaneous physical actions. You don't get started a light switch; you just turn it on. Don't use it for things that happen to you. You don't get started a cold; you just catch one. Also, in very stiff, legal documents, they might prefer commence. Using get started in a court of law might feel a bit too 'coffee-shop casual.'

Western culture, especially in the US, prizes 'getting things done.' There is a huge emphasis on 'taking the first step.' Phrases like get started reflect this 'go-getter' attitude. It’s the language of productivity and 'hustle' culture. It suggests that the hardest part of any job is simply the beginning.

You will often hear let's get started to lead a group. Another common one is get started on, which focuses on a specific task. If someone says 'Don't get me started,' they actually mean 'Don't make me talk about that topic because I have a lot of (usually negative) things to say!' It’s a funny twist on the phrase.