The Second Step

They say that the first step is the hardest. I argue that it’s the second.

The initial high-energy burst of motivation acts as a catalyst, jump-starting our journey to a new goal. But exuberance wans with time and uncertainty, and doubt can settle in and zap your drive and enthusiasm. The second step can feel like slogging through the muck, a dirty fight with the negativity taking over your mind.

Have you ever started something and struggled with it for the first few weeks? Yet each positive step feeds back into your motivation, boosts your confidence, and propels you forward – so that next step is just a little easier. That escalation turns into commitment, and then into habit. What was new becomes routine, so ingrained that when you don’t do it, you miss it or feel “off.” That goal is no longer a dream or uncertainty – step-by-step you succeeded, and it becomes part of who you are!

So how can you set yourself up to succeed in that second step? It isn’t about working harder – it’s about working smarter! The right approach to goal setting can give you the upper hand in battling your internal self-doubt.

Think of a step you are ready to take. Then ask yourself the following questions to help refine that step and set you up for success!

1) Is your planned step realistic? Can you see yourself doing it? Visualizing yourself taking this step can promote your belief in your own abilities.

2) When will you complete this step? Plan the details and prioritize a specific time in your schedule to take action. 

3) Do you have the resources you need to complete this step? If not, can you get them? Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

4) How will you hold yourself accountable? Try checking in with a friend or keeping a written log. Look for a nonjudgmental support team that won’t be afraid to ask about your progress but won’t criticize your struggles.

5) What obstacles can you anticipate? Brainstorm creative ways to overcome them so that you are prepared to fight through setbacks. Again, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

6) How confident do you feel in your ability to complete this step? Is there anything you can do or change to improve your level of confidence? The more positive your mindset, the more ammunition you have against future uncertainty and doubt!

7) How can you reward yourself for successfully completing this step? What can you say to support yourself if you experience a setback? Instead of dwelling on your difficulties, learn from them!

Start with that first step – stick your toe in the water and embrace the initial exuberance. Then dive in to the second step and let it build, creating the change towards your goal. With each step it will get easier until, one day, you turn around and stand in awe at how far you’ve come.