How Small Steps Can Make A Big Difference

As you will know from your observation of others over time, many people wish for a better life, talk about a better future, and then wonder why things are not happening for them. Very often, the difference is in the willingness, desire, or sometimes the bravery to take action. Or, to put it another way, take that first step.

Procrastination often leads to missing out on your goals, missing out on your ambitions and missing out on the life you want to lead. Procrastination often stems from fear, which can sometimes feel overwhelming and causes us to retreat to the safe and familiar. So, how do you overcome this fear, and what strategies can you employ to achieve your heart's desires?

Desmond Tutu once wisely said, “there is only one way to eat an elephant: a bite at a time.” Whilst he was not promoting an elephant buffet, he was suggesting that even a seemingly gargantuan task can be accomplished by gradually completing a little at a time.

Many of you will recall times when you have taken action, and things have worked out and other times when they have not. Both are valuable experiences. Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioners put it another way “there is no failure, only feedback.”

Reflecting on when we have taken a first step can provide the momentum you need to start something new.

Questions to encourage small-step action:   

• Which life skills have you learnt step-by-step? 

• Which relationships in your life developed step-by-step? 

• Have you ever read a book or article that changed your view on something? 

• What do you find easy to do now that was difficult when you first started? 

• Have you ever made a career decision that took you in a new direction? 

• When did saying ‘yes’ take you in a better direction? 

• When did taking a chance turn out to be an exciting adventure? 

• Was there ever a small thing someone said to you that had a significant impact on your life?

Recognising that you have previously actioned small steps and the gains you have made from them allows you to apply this thinking to your current situation. For more help with inspiring change within yourself, you can read ‘9 Coaching Questions to Challenge Yourself'.  

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