Take the First Step and then the next and then the next…

I have worked with many people throughout my career that sincerely desire a better life, but then become paralyzed with fear and self-doubt when confronted with the need to take an action toward achieving a goal.  I’ve worked with people who desperately wanted to stop smoking, but couldn’t even envision creating a plan to quit.  I worked with successful people who wanted to return to school to follow a dream for a new career, but couldn’t even explore school websites to find out more information. I’ve worked with small business owners who want to grow their businesses, but won’t invest the resources to update their websites!

Why is it that seemingly capable people find it so hard to make a change in their lives?

I think the security of the status quo, even if it isn’t something people want anymore, makes any change seem like a daunting task. The excuses come fast and furious.  I’m too old.  I don’t have enough time.  I can’t afford it.  The list goes on and on.  These are the stories we tell ourselves that keep us stuck.

Yet, the key to any change, especially big ones, is to take it one step at a time.  The things we want to change about ourselves didn’t happen overnight so change will take some time. Take the first step toward your goal no matter how small the step.  Then take the next step and then the next until you reach your goal.