The First Step

 “The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.” ~John Pierpont Morgan

How often do you find yourself dancing with indecisiveness about what your next steps or actions will be in your life? I will admit there have been times when I’ve felt stuck and hesitant to take a step forward into something new. The fear of uncertainty and failure can be paralyzing if you aren’t careful. But sometimes all it takes to move forward is the decision that you are ready to take that first step and the certainty of knowing that no matter where it takes you, you’re going to be alright.

I remember as a little girl growing up, my grandparents used to say, "Watch out for that first step. It's a doozy.", which I always thought was funny. But I was not lost on the fact that what they were actually saying, was to be careful because that first step could be tricky, difficult or even dangerous. And if you weren't careful, you could trip and fall. It was a warning to proceed with caution, to look forward and be aware as you took that first step. But it was certainly not a warning that you shouldn't take the step at all.

So what does all this have to do with this week's quote? Well, it's a reminder that it's okay to take that first step, even if it feels a little uncertain or difficult. Many people are so afraid of tripping, falling or failing that they stay stuck in indecision. Even though staying where they are is uncomfortable, not making a decision to change, is strangely more comfortable then feeling the fear of change at times.

Sure, taking that first step can be scary. Maybe that's why so many people never allow themselves the freedom to even dream about a new future, let alone, start living it. Fear can be paralyzing. If you are afraid that first step might be a "doozy", that fear can keep you from ever moving forward. But here's the thing... even when I'd hear my grandparents use that familiar term, I never saw anyone decide not to take that first step. It might have caused some to slow down and be careful, but they all walked on... And even those who tripped, despite the friendly warning, still kept moving forward.

So if you’re stuck or you feel that your life isn’t moving forward at the pace you’d like, then I want to encourage you to take that first step! If you don't take that step, you will never walk through the threshold of change towards a better life. Let your fears give way to motion. Decide and declare today that you are not going to stay where you are any longer. That truly is the first step towards moving through to change. Then move forward with your eyes wide open, in full awareness. Go ahead and proceed with caution if you must but no matter what, take that first step.

***What’s your next step? If you aren’t sure what that is or you aren’t quite sure how to take it, then now is a great time to schedule a KickStart Strategy Session. The year is half over so don’t let another day slip by. Get your session scheduled now and finish the year in a much better space, mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually and financially then you started.