It was Mark Twain who said “the secret of getting ahead is getting started”. How many things do you currently have on your list of want to do, dream about, or maybe one day? My list used to be really long, and I really didn’t believe those things were within reach for me.
That is just the dream list right?
We don’t actually get to do the things we dream about - it’s all fantasy and what you see in the movies, right?
Wrong. This is our one wild and precious life and you can do with it what you wish, it’s yours to create!
If you want to take that leap and create the life of your dreams, there's one thing you absolutely must do: Get started.
Hot off the presses! That's right, the best way to achieve your goals and move forward in your life is simply to begin. It sounds simple, but as with most things that sound simple, it feels hard. But what if it wasn’t hard? (see October blog post here). Here’s the thing:
1. Getting started builds momentum
When you take that first step towards your goal, it can be incredibly powerful. It sets you on a path, and as you begin to make progress, you start building momentum (remember Grade 11 Physics class?). Each step you take reinforces your commitment to your goal, and helps you gain confidence that you can achieve it.
2. Starting is often the hardest part
Have you ever found yourself stuck, unable to move forward because you just don't know where to begin or it feels scary and uncertain? You are not alone, starting is often the hardest part. It’s like getting off the couch to do a workout - you just don’t want to even though you want to. Once you get going, you'll find that it's much easier to keep going, and the truth is you’ll (likely) never regret it.
3. Starting helps you learn and grow
When you start something new, you're bound to make mistakes because you’ve never done it before (and we don’t start out as experts, sorry perfectionists). Those mistakes can be incredibly valuable - they help you learn and grow. Remember the acronym FAIL - First Action In Learning. You'll gain valuable experience and insight that will help you make better decisions in the future. Win! (to be celebrated)
So, if you want to get ahead, the best thing you can do is get started, but how?
Here are a few tips:
1. Set a clear goal
Before you can get started, you need to know what you're working towards. Take some time to really think about the things you want to achieve, then define them clearly and specifically. Write it down, and make sure it's something that truly matters to you.
2. Break it down into manageable steps
Once you know what your goal is, break it down into smaller, bite-sized milestones. This will make it easier to get started, and help you build momentum as you make progress.
3. Take action, even if it's small
Don't wait for the perfect moment or the perfect plan - just take action, even if it's a small step. The sooner you get started, the sooner you'll start building momentum and no matter how slowly you go, just don’t stop - I call this my “Grouse Grind approach” for those familiar with the Vancouver hike.
4. Celebrate your progress
See my last blog post here. As you make progress towards your goal, take time to celebrate your achievements. This will help you stay motivated and inspired, remind you of why you started in the first place, and fire those positivity neurons building new pathways in your brain.
While I believe the Universe has our back and will always deliver, it’s not going to deliver to your couch while you sit and wish for the things you most desire in life.
You have to make the first move.
What first step will get you started?
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