This is often the time of year where we take a moment to check in with ourselves to see how we are progress on that New Year’s resolution. How is it going? Many of us (myself included) find it hard to know where to start, so we don’t. The dream is big…but the steps are bigger. Maybe this message will serve as a reminder that it is fine to be nervous about moving forward. But, you also owe it to yourself to do at least one thing today that will bring you closer to that goal.
You probably will find that taking that one step, no matter how small it seems, has such a wonderful impact on your attitude and self-esteem. It may even put a little pep in your step!
It Can Be Habit Forming
Let’s say you want to make a change in your health and want to walk 20 minutes a day. Start by walking 10 minutes in the morning and 10 during your lunch time or after dinner every day for 21 days. That timeframe has been recommended for turning a behavior into a habit. The more you do it, the more it becomes part of you and the better you feel about yourself.
A key reminder is to not take on too much at once. That’s when frustration can set in and it’s easy just to give up Just start with one thing and do that for 21 days. Then begin the next habit.
I’ll Stop Procrastinating…Later
As you progress in creating these new habits, take a moment to notice how good you are feeling. Not only physically, but emotionally as well. It’s all about acting versus putting off owning a change. When you take that first step, it feels as though a weight has been lifted. You CAN take a step, things didn’t fall apart. You DID do something positive for yourself, and it feels great.
So often we are afraid to take that first step because it may not be the right one. It may be a fear that you will be stepping into an uncharted part of life and you feel you don’t have control anymore. What if I fail, so I may just as well not try because that’s probably what will happen. Sound familiar?
That first step is the biggest one you will take. The rest will fall into place. That’s all part of learning and growing. Every single one of us must take a first step of some kind during our lives. Will they always be 100% correct? Most likely not, and that is just fine. The important thing is you took that first step. The toughest one.
Roadmaps
Something you can do to help yourself is create an action plan. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy…even something like a motivational quote can help. Make a list of small steps it will take to accomplish your goal. Check each one off as you complete them. You will find something that will keep you focused and motivated. Know you are worth it!
