Progress Occurs Even When You Take Small Steps...

Making the decision that you need to implement a change in your life is hurdle by itself.  Although change is the only constant in life, generally, we are creatures of habit.  Resorting to a known response, to an action that provides some comfort, but ultimately is unhelpful, is certainly easier.  When you make the decision to implement a change, to reprogram the way you respond to a situation, be proud of yourself.  This is step one.

Step two is a bit more challenging.  In the beginning, staying the course can be difficult.  Outside and inside influences may cause you to doubt your path.  Your own resolve will be tested.  In those moments, I suggest you use the 1% rule - - make the change 1% at a time.  Small steps towards your goal are still progress.  And, those small steps certainly add up.  

Consider this.  You’ve decided to make a change, and you’ve put in place the tools (whether they be physical or emotional) you need to make this change.  You are a few days into this change and someone who is not supportive is critical of your progress. Here is where the 1% rule can help.  You’ve already made progress.  Don’t give up because of that outside opinion.  Instead, celebrate how far you’ve come.  Recognize that you’ve made progress.  File away the negative opinion under the “unhelpful” category and continue on your path.

If you struggle and you find that you’ve resorted to old ways, don’t give up.  Go back to the 1% rule and recognize how far you’ve come.  Perhaps you’ve lost a bit of your progress.  But, if you look at the fact that you were 5% or 10% or 20%, or maybe even 50% closer to your goal, losing a percentage or two is nothing compared to what you’ve accomplished.  

You are beautiful, strong and resilient. You have the ability to choose your own path.  Make that change and move forward, 1% at a time.  ​

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