The Power of Step 1

We all have that one idea, that one project, or that one dream we’ve been holding on to. The one we’ve promised ourselves we’ll get to “someday.”

Start a business? Write a book? Become healthy? Launch a new career? Make that one change in our close relationship? But here’s the thing: “someday” is a myth. It doesn’t exist.

We have all been there. Caught in the cycle of planning, overthinking, and waiting for the perfect moment. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it is this: there is no perfect moment. The stars will never align perfectly, and there will always be reasons to wait.

The most important thing you can do is to start. Start where you are. Even if it’s messy, even if it’s small, even if you have no idea what you’re doing—just start. Here's why that makes sense.

1. The Illusion of Perfection

One of the biggest obstacles to starting is the belief that we need to have everything figured out before we take the first step. We tell ourselves we need more time, more knowledge, more experience, more money, more… whatever. But this pursuit of perfection is just a disguise for fear. (Did you read my article on FEAR a few days ago?) It’s a way to avoid the discomfort of being a beginner.

I’ve met so many talented people with brilliant ideas who never get started because they’re waiting for perfect conditions. You know that perfection is an illusion. So, what other evidence of that are you looking for? The truth is the only way to get closer to perfection is to start imperfectly. Every expert was once a beginner who was willing to look foolish, make mistakes, and learn along the way.

2. The Power of Momentum

Starting is the hardest part, but once you take that first step, something incredible happens: momentum. It’s like pushing a boulder up a hill. The initial push is tough, but once it starts rolling, it gains speed, and things start to move. You make one small move, and it leads to another, and then another.

I’ve experienced it. Over and over. Whenever I stopped waiting and took action, even small steps created momentum that I couldn’t have predicted. One decision led to new opportunities, connections, and insights. But none of that would have happened if I hadn’t been willing to take that first, imperfect step.

Example: At age 27, I was fired from a job. A job I hated. Yet, I was devastated for months! Looking back, it was the turning point that led me to new pastures. My career took off. I felt in love with "failing forward". Began to understand that all possibilities lay in the unknown. Uncertainty is just a perception because you think predictability is what you are after.

3. Learning Through Doing

We often think we need to learn everything before we start. The fact is: the most valuable learning happens through doing. You can read all the books, take all the courses, and attend all the seminars, but nothing will prepare you as much as actually getting your hands dirty.

When you start, you gain real-world experience. You learn what works and what doesn’t. You discover your strengths and weaknesses. And most importantly, you start building confidence in your ability to figure things out. Because you will. You’ll make mistakes, but you’ll also learn, adapt, and grow.

I have spent most of my life being in learning mode. When you start a new business, or build a new team, or launch a new department for your employer, like I did, you must go in with wonder and curiosity. If you can put on the hat that you will get it done, no matter what, you feel an element of certainty inside of you. Even if you run into all sorts of hurdles in every form (people, technology, government, etc., etc.), which you will inevitably.

4. Reflecting on the Journey So Far

Gratitude is the gateway to Grace! {I am not sure who said that, but it is such a pattern-interruptor!} In your journey of life, particularly if you are in the middle of what you believe is a major challenge -- and we all do have one, right now -- immediately, focus on what it is you are grateful for. Do this every morning and if you can, several times a day

Instead of worrying about how you will begin something new, why not start by seeing all that you have accomplished. And all that brought you where you are! Each step, no matter how small, brings you me closer to where you want to be. There will be moments of doubt, fear, and even failure. Yet, to able to reflect on how far you have come is empowering. It all begins with that first uncertain step.

We underestimate the power of starting because we can’t yet see the progress we’ll make. But it’s only when we take that initial leap that we can look back and see the miles we’ve traveled. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about appreciating the courage it took to begin, the resilience to keep going, and the lessons learned along the way.

5. Overcoming Fear of Failure

Fear of failure is a powerful force—it convinces us that the pain of trying and falling short is worse than the comfort of never trying at all. It whispers that it’s better to stay safe, to protect ourselves from disappointment and judgment. But this fear, left unchecked, becomes a barrier that keeps us from experiencing the richness of life beyond our comfort zone.

Failure is not a measure of our worth or potential. It’s a sign that we’re reaching, experimenting, and daring to explore what’s possible. Each failure is an opportunity to learn, to refine our approach, and to grow stronger. It’s the friction that polishes our abilities, the resistance that builds resilience. Without it, there’s no progress, no discovery, no innovation.

Real failure: not trying at all. By avoiding the risk of failure, we also avoid the chance of success, the chance to realize our dreams and make a meaningful impact. We end up trading long-term fulfillment for short-term comfort. Because in the end, it’s not failure we should fear, but the regret of never having tried. Just Start.

I’ve come a long way from where I started, and I know I still have a long way to go. But when I look back, I’m grateful for every imperfect, uncertain step I took. So, take that first step today. Whatever it is, no matter how small, just start. Because once you do, you’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of. You’ll look back and wonder why you waited so long.

And remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. So, what are you waiting for?

Use your courage. You have it in you. Take that first step.

Need support? Accountability? DM me.