Small Steps/Big Leaps
In short, Small steps and big leaps is the main concept behind Geared 4 Life. Breaking down goals into small steps is a key component of achieving success in almost any endeavor.
It is a process that involves taking a long-term goal and breaking it down into smaller, more manageable tasks that can be completed one step at a time.
This approach is crucial because it provides a clear roadmap to follow, helps to keep motivation high, and makes the overall goal more achievable. Breaking down goals into small steps helps to create a clear and specific plan of action.
When a goal is vague or undefined, it can be difficult to know where to start or what to do next. However, by breaking it down into smaller steps, it becomes much easier to identify the specific actions that need to be taken to achieve the goal.
Let’s use a marathon as an example. Suppose someone has a long-term goal of running a marathon. In that case, breaking it down into smaller steps may involve setting a training schedule, gradually increasing the distance they run each week, and incorporating cross-training exercises to build stamina and strength.
Each of these smaller steps is specific and actionable, making it easier to track progress and stay motivated.
Again, breaking down goals into small steps helps to maintain motivation and momentum. When a goal is lofty and seems far away, it can be easy to become discouraged or overwhelmed.
However, by focusing on smaller, more achievable milestones, it is easier to stay motivated and continue making progress. If this person thinks about themselves in their current state, the idea of running a marathon, or even surviving one, may seem impossible.
But, the idea behind this is to focus on the next step, the next exercise, or the next mile. The next step is achievable in the short term, all while working for the end goal in the long term.
Another key component of taking small steps is that it allows for more frequent and measurable progress. Remember this, “Where results are measured, progress can be made.”
In other words, when a goal is broken down into smaller steps, it is easier to track progress and see how far you have come, therefore letting you know where to make improvements.
This can be incredibly motivating and can help to provide a sense of accomplishment along the way.
Additionally, small steps are less intimidating to most people. What seems more achievable, reading 12 books in a year, or reading 3 pages today? You see a stack of books with all those pages and might think it's impossible.
But if someone gave you a book and asked you to read 3 pages you could do it. This is a perfect example of focusing on the next small step. It is much easier to take action when the task at hand is small and manageable, all while keeping you on track and making progress.
It also allows for adjustments and corrections along the way. When working towards a long-term goal, it is inevitable that there will be setbacks and obstacles.
However, when a goal is broken down into smaller steps, it is easier to identify where things went wrong and make the necessary adjustments to get back on track.
For instance, if someone has a goal of losing 50 pounds. In that case, breaking it down into smaller steps may involve setting a weekly weight loss target, tracking food intake, and incorporating regular exercise into their routine. If they experience a setback, such as a week where they do not lose any weight, they can adjust their approach by increasing their exercise or cutting back on calories to get back on track.
Again, breaking down goals into small steps can help to build confidence and self-efficacy.
When someone achieves a small goal, even if it is just a small step towards a larger goal, it can be incredibly empowering.
Each time someone completes a small step, they build confidence in their ability to achieve the larger goal.
In conclusion, small steps are an essential component of achieving success. It provides a clear roadmap to follow, helps to maintain motivation, allows for more frequent progress tracking, allows for adjustments and corrections along the way, and builds confidence and self-efficacy.
