So, you’ve made these great plans for your goals…now what? It’s exciting to set goals and visualize success, but how do you actually get started? That’s the big question.
If you’re like me, you might struggle with something I call “Paralysis by Analysis.” I’ll admit, I’m a repeat offender! I’ll spend so much time preparing, planning, and writing down steps, but when it’s time to take action, I freeze. The result? All those amazing plans gather dust as I slip back into my old routine.
Sound familiar? If so, let’s change that – starting today.
Break Free from the Cycle
Here’s how it usually goes: Tomorrow comes, and I think, “Okay, today’s the day!” But before I know it, weeks (or months!) have flown by, and I am no further along than I was when I began. Sometimes, I even convince myself it’s a lost cause. “Maybe this dream just isn’t realistic,” I’ll think to myself.
But somewhere inside, a little voice reminds me:
STOP IT!
YOU’VE GOT THIS!
If you’re reading this, you have what it takes, too. You’ve already made progress by deciding to pursue your goals. Now, I’m asking you to take one more small step, today. Just one baby step – that’s all it takes to start building momentum.
The “Eat That Frog” Strategy
Have you heard the phrase, “Eat that frog?” It refers to the practice of tackling your toughest task first thing in the day. Once you get the hardest thing out of the way, everything else feels so much easier!
This works wonders for some people, but if you’re not a morning person (like me!), don’t stress. The key is to find what motivates you and build a routine around it.
Here’s what I do:
- Write it down. I list what I want to accomplish and find a specific time slot in my day to work on it. I treat it like an appointment and label it just as seriously as a client meeting.
- Get support. Sharing my plans with a supportive friend or family member helps me stay accountable. Plus, their encouragement keeps me motivated.
- Set reminders. Alarms or phone notifications can prompt you to take action – whether it’s hopping on the treadmill or finishing a work task.
Celebrate the Baby Steps
Every little step counts. Finished one task? Take a moment to enjoy that sense of accomplishment. Small wins build confidence and set the stage for bigger achievements.
Remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day. Many of the builders probably didn’t even get to see the project’s completion, but they showed up, day after day, because every brick mattered. Your journey is the same. Progress might feel slow at times, but consistency will get you to your goal.
Final Thoughts
The hardest part is starting, but once you do, momentum can build quickly. Don’t get stuck in “overthinking mode.” Instead, take one step today, just one baby step, and keep going!
Believe in yourself.
You’ve got this!
What’s your favorite strategy for taking that first step toward a goal? Share it in the comments below and inspire others to take action!