Over the past month or so, we’ve been reviewing our Success Path framework to support you in setting yourself up for a satisfying and fulfilling year.

We ended the series last week, with various foundational practices you could put in place to help keep you on track, even when life throws you a curve ball.

Studies have shown that if you set huge goals and try to take action on them all at once you’ll likely feel defeated and set them aside.

As tempting as it may be
to jump in with big changes in January,
we want to encourage you
to ease into your year.

Those who take small steps consistently over time, are more apt to see lasting change.

This week we’re talking about how to get traction (and sustain it!) on some of the goals you’ve identified. The key is to focus on the next small step. Don’t worry about the whole year—just think about your next small step.

As you read through this simple guide, consider what might support you in taking consistent small steps toward your goals.

Focus on small steps.

  • Write down one small step you’ll take to day, that’s in alignment with your vision.
  • If you have trouble coming up with your small step, try breaking it down into 2-4 big steps. Then, 2-4 medium steps for each big step. Then, 2-4 small steps for each medium step.
  • Ask yourself, “What’s the one small step I can take today, that will move closer to my vision or goal?”

Be kind to yourself.

  • Talk to yourself in a positive way (whether or not you’ve taken a small step toward your goal) that day.
  • Remember that you’re aiming for overall progress, not perfection every single day. Reflect on both successes and challenges.
  • You could say something like, “Yesterday was depleting because I overextended myself at work, school, and family commitments, so I didn’t do my exercises. That’s okay, because I made some great healthy choices every other day last week and am looking forward to focusing on my health tomorrow.”

Get support.

  • Meet regularly with a loved one, colleague, co-worker, or team, to talk about goals and to share progress and setbacks you’re having on your goals.
  • Talk with a coach or therapist about the ways they can support you in moving forward.
  • Whether on your own or with another person, regularly ask yourself questions like, “What have been my successes and challenges recently? What small steps will I focus on next?”

That’s it. Small steps. Just for today.

Then, do it again tomorrow. One day at a time. Before you know it, you’ll have taken your small steps consistently for weeks and months!

By shifting from running as fast as you can, to taking thoughtful intentional steps, you can create sustainable success throughout the year.

We hope this simple guide will support you as you ease into your year. As always, let us know how it’s going.

We’re here for you.

If you’d like support
taking consistent small steps
toward your goals,
contact us today.