The Friday Recap: Baby steps


This past week we have spent time taking a huge task of implementing a data strategy and broken it down into smaller pieces. Each piece has been built on the previous just like moving up a set of stairs. In meditating on this past week I realized that the pattern of breaking down a huge task into parts can be applied to anything. Trying to save for a house? If you focus on that 20% down number you are shooting for it may seem impossible, but can you save $100 a week? After a few weeks do you think you can save $150 a week? It will take time but if you focus on this goal one week at a time you will move into your new home.

We are faced with a wide range of challenges that can seem so daunting that we don't know where to start. We may feel overwhelmed and scared. But it's important to remember that we can overcome any challenge if we break it down into smaller, more manageable steps.

So where do we start? At the beginning of course. We have to look at the situation in front of us and break it down. Here are five steps that can help you do that:

  1. Identify the main goal. What do you want to achieve? Once you know the main goal, you can start to break it down into smaller steps.
  2. Break the main goal into smaller tasks. Each task should be specific and measurable. For example, if your main goal is to write a book, a smaller task could be to write 500 words per day.
  3. Estimate the time each task will take. This will help you to create a realistic timeline for completing the task.
  4. Prioritize the tasks. Not all tasks are created equal. Some tasks are more important than others. Prioritize the tasks so that you focus on the most important ones first.
  5. Break down the tasks even further if necessary. If a task is still too big, break it down into even smaller steps. This will make it even easier to manage.

By breaking down the challenge into smaller steps, it becomes much more manageable. And once you start taking action, you'll be surprised at how quickly you can make progress.

Something to remember when you are dealing with challenges is to focus on the short term. When we focus on the long term, it can be easy to get discouraged. But if we focus on the next step, we can stay motivated and on track.

For example, let's say you're trying to lose weight. This may seem like a daunting goal, but if you focus on losing just 1 pound per week, it becomes much more manageable. And once you start seeing results, you'll be more likely to stick with your plan.

Life is full of mountains that you have to scale, but next time you're faced with a challenge, don't be afraid to break it down into smaller parts. And focus on the short term. By doing these things, you'll be well on your way to overcoming any challenge.

Here are a few things that you need to remember while you are forging forward with your particular challenge :

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. There are people who care about you and want to help you succeed.  Reach out to them and let them know how they can help and I bet you will be pleasantly surprised. 
  • Don't give up. There will be times when you want to quit, but don't give up. Keep pushing forward and you will eventually reach your goal.
  • Celebrate your successes. It's important to celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. This will help you stay motivated and on track.
  • Be realistic about the time each task will take. Don't underestimate the time it will take to complete a task.  If a realistic timeframe seems to long, maybe it is time to reevaluate the step and break it down more.
  • Be flexible. Things don't always go according to plan, so be prepared to adjust your timeline as needed.

Remember, life is scary at times, but it's also full of opportunities. By breaking down challenges into smaller parts and focusing on the short term, you can overcome any challenge and achieve your goals. Do not be afraid to take that first step and before you realize you will be crossing the finish line.

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