Why is taking the first step so hard? I know I’m not the only member of the over think it crew out there. I am a thinker, a planner, and dare I say it – a perfectionist. I’m working on the last one, it serves no one well. Friends, the reality is, perfection is unattainable. Still, even knowing that, the first step is hard. It really doesn’t matter what you are taking a step towards or even away from for that matter. First steps always seem to come with a certain amount of angst. In part because of our human nature and part due to what society tells us what we should be at any given moment in our lives.
We live with constant pressure to compare our lives to others which ultimately gets in the way of us serving others. Can you help your neighbor without adding up what they haven’t repaid you yet? It’s not about competition. It’s about making the impact you were given this life to make. Here are a few ways you can be intentional about taking the first step:
- Know Yourself
- I’m a fan of personality tests! If you don’t have a great idea of how your basic personality traits influence and shape your ideas and actions spend a little time learning more here. The enneagram is a great place to start. There are many platforms out there. Here is one I recommend and have personally used : The Enneagram Institute
- Spend time communicating with God about the step you’re considering
- Philippians 4:6-7 tells us not to worry or be anxious about anything. Prayer is your key to communicating with God and you have open access 24/7. Need clarity, let’s chat it out with God.
- Be realistic and think big!
- Being realistic doesn’t always mean shrinking your goals. You can definitely think big and grow into that space. The key is to make each step count! Are you maximizing the place you are in every step of the way?
- Have accountability partners
- Let’s just put it out there – not everyone is meant to be in your business like that. Choose these people carefully. We all need friends who support us and have our best interest at heart. However, those same trusted people should also be able to correct and guide us when we are heading in the wrong direction.
- Give yourself permission to make mistakes.
- Say it with me: “I am not perfect, and that’s ok!” Mistakes will happen. Learn from them and move on. Find a great podcast! Listen and learn from the experiences of others. We all have a path to travel. This one by Michelle Obama is the perfect place to start – here’s the link to listen.
So, let’s do it! Take the step. Do the thing. Live the life that’s been given to you.
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