“Sometimes it’s the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.” – Keri Russell
Every significant, major change that we make in our lives is the result of a long series of small changes.
Consider these examples of how small steps lead to lifelong changes:
- Quitting smoking starts by not lighting up that next cigarette.
- Losing weight begins by turning down one more spoonful.
- Decluttering your home starts by removing one unnecessary item from your home.
- Getting out of debt starts by purchasing one less thing.
- Starting a business begins with one idea.
- Saving your marriage starts with the realization that it was worth saving.
Studies show that one of the ways to fuel the big changes we want in our lives is to notice and celebrate the small victories we’re making along the way.
Our lives are not measured by the leaps and bounds as much as they are measured by the little steps and decisions that we make each day. We don’t always get to control the outcome, but we can make small changes to control our actions.
Of course, in this world of filtered influencers, fast food, instant downloads, get-rich-quick schemes, and never-ending media hype, those standing at the finish line often receive the praise, while those still on their journey are often overlooked.
As a result, those still on the journey believe they are failing because they don’t stand at the finish line yet. Our society doesn’t do a good job of lifting up those en route.
We must learn to adjust our thinking. Not just as a society, but firstly and most importantly, as individuals.
It is entirely appropriate to praise those who have successfully completed positive life change, of course. But we must also celebrate those still on their journey!
Every step forward is worthy of celebration. And when we see it in our own lives (or in the lives of others), we must call it what it is—a victory worthy of celebration!
The father who comes home and picks up his child rather than the remote control deserves celebration.
The alcoholic who chooses to attend one more AA meeting deserves celebration.
The husband drowning in debt who packs a lunch for work deserves celebration.
The consumer-driven wife who chooses to not buy that extra pair of shoes deserves celebration.
The swindler who earns his first honest dollar deserves celebration.
The man struggling with his weight that chooses to take the stairs deserves our celebration.
The anorexic who eats a full meal deserves our celebration.
The wealthy man who writes his first check to charity (no matter the amount) deserves our celebration.
The couple on brink of divorce that unselfishly sits down at the kitchen table to finally talk it over deserves celebration.
We all need grace. We all need patience. And we are a people in need of encouragement.
So let’s be quick to celebrate the little steps we are making.
Life is fully-lived in both big moments and small.
Shawne says
Thank you for the reminder that little steps do matter!
Heather DePaola says
I agree at least for me in my space today. I have made a small step and still taking that step for almost a month! BIG deal for me. Thanks Josh
Rachel A. says
I love your article and the point it makes. However, please keep in mind that your examples may reiterate harmful patriarchal stereotypes.
“The consumer-driven wife {OR husband} who chooses to not buy that extra pair of shoes deserves celebration.”
“The father who comes home and picks up his child rather than the remote control deserves celebration.” (While this is great, would any mother be celebrated for this, or would this just be expected of her?)
Just something to keep in mind! Thanks again for the great content though :)
Dawn says
Agreed! I picked up on that too. Especially the disparity of the gender depiction between the two examples you mentioned.
Christie E says
That caught my attention, too. I’ve been on this earth for 65 years and am grateful that there have been significant inroads in addressing the patriarchy but we’re not done. I think of becoming minimalist as choosing intentionality. Please be very intentional and aware with your words. Those words strongly impacted my desire to hear your message. Or even future messages. Words matter.
Jarius Elliott says
Excellent post Joshua! Focusing in on the small steps that lead to our vision is often derailed by our instinct for immediate gratification. One thing I also keep in mind with small steps: being human we will inevitably have a fall. The key is to be gentle and forgiving with ourselves and then get back up and in the fight.
Jyotsna Nandan says
Thank you for a heartfelt message. It touched my heart. You said it right “EnRoute don’t get acknowledged”. But taking one step every single day is what we can do to get close to the finish line.
Jeffrey Pillow says
Great post and so true. Running was one of the most important habit changes I’ve made over the last two years. I look at it like this: 1 mile is more than 0 miles. That’s how I motivate myself out the door. If I say, “Okay, just one mile,” then that usually turns into 2 or 3 or 4 or more miles once I get into rhythm. The same rule of thumb applies for walking. I have a love/hate relationship with running but it’s all love when it comes to a good walk or hike.
Mel C. says
Yep!
Patricia A Nejmanowski says
Excellent post!
Thank you
Geetha Prabagar says
Beautifully written.
Simple words yet powerful message.
Thank you for sharing your valuable thoughts!
Fran says
Very encouraging words! Thanks for your good work.
Eileen Manganella says
Love this post. Especially the comment regarding Grace. 💕
Judith Morgan says
I really enjoyed & understood your post Jason of counting the small steps & not feeling pressured & daunted from always looking at the big mountain of changes that needs to be accomplished to succeed.
Thank you for sharing.
Judy says
I agree wholeheartenly with you… This article has been very encouraging for me… I will celebrate each small step I take now with my decluttering of my home… not so much look at the daunting big picture!
Leonie says
Fantastic post and reminder about the importance of encouragement and valuing small steps.
Thank you for you great work Joshua.