It would be so much easier if there was just one GIANT step each one of us could take to reach a goal we set for ourselves, wouldn’t it? But that’s just not likely going to be the case. Here’s what I’m discovering:

-If a goal is really important, it’s going to take some time to reach it. We all have the time, right? Yes, we’re busy, but we all have the same 24 hours in a day.

-We tend to start out highly motivated and focused on achieving the goal because we’ve deemed it important.

-We can find ourselves easily frustrated by slow and steady progress, We think things should be happening much more quickly so we may decide take a giant step that’s too unrealistic. And in doing so, we may end up abandoning the goal altogether. Webtell ourselves we’re just not cut out for this or we lack the ________ to accomplish our goal. The blank could be time, money, skills, desire, willpower, persistence, etc.

-Small steps are meant to encourage us, NOT discourage us. They remind us that progress happens over time, that our commitment level grows stronger as we take the next step. Small steps build our courage and strengthen our faith. They remind us that we’re worth it.

-Along the way, we should expect to encounter a few detours or minor setbacks attempting to throw us off course. It’s just part of the process. And it builds persistence and perseverance within us if we keep pressing on toward our goal rather than giving in or giving up.

-There is no straight and linear path to achieving the goals we set for ourselves. We have to let go of perfection and prepare to get a little messy, but it will be worth it.

What’s holding you back from going after your goals? What are you telling yourself that’s preventing you from taking the next step? What if you really let yourself believe that now is as good a time as any to get started?