Do One Thing Each Day That Takes You Closer to Your Goal

So many of us appear to have goals that never materialise.

That is to say, we all have lofty ambitions that are deeply personal to us. They could be passions, ideas, dreams or aspirations that for many years have been cooped up in our minds. Things we’d like to create, things we’d like to build, or things that we'd simply like to have a shot at!

The next thing we know though is that the years have flown by and when it comes to our goals and other meaningful items on our bucket list, we’ve made absolutely no progress.

On the contrary, we’re more likely to have been quietly consumed by years of inactivity, complacency and procrastination. Any good intentions or new year resolutions to get the wheels turning may have gone down in flames as life’s distractions take over.

“Success is often attributed to men and women who move forward by taking micro-steps every day towards getting what they want.”

It’s not that we don't have the skills and talent, it’s merely that we’ve allowed days, weeks and years to pass by without making any progress. Frankly put, we are simply our own limits.

By the same token, although anyone can work at and go after their goals, the sheer reality is that not everyone necessarily will. It's what differentiates the daydreamers from the doers. Look at it this way, doers start and keep going, while dreamers postpone and find excuses.

It may go to explain why success is often attributed to men and women who move forward by taking micro-steps every day towards getting what they want.

In their quest to reach the finish line, they appreciate they have to build daily progress into their routines to a point where it becomes habitual. In fact, where their goal is concerned, it’s not unusual for them to start each day with an intention to complete a manageable task that in some way inches them closer.

Not only that, but it’s often this ‘intent’ to complete a mini-milestone that serves as the powerful internal driving force that motivates them to act. It’s what compels them to prioritise and wisely channel their time and energy into activities that support the achievement of their long-term ambition.

And they do it step-by-step, day-by-day, never giving up. A good illustration are elite athletes who train every day, pushing through the pain, to excel and push their skills to the limit.

Likewise, successful businesses aren’t built overnight. Given the enormity of the task, business founders tend to break the big picture down into daily micro-goals and steps. If you like, single actions that they can focus on one at a time - conducting research, brainstorming a name, hiring people.

“Momentum can act as a stimulus that builds positive thinking, driving us in the right direction.”

Authors do the same. The journey to getting a book published is more often than not a process of systematic baby steps that ranges from planning and researching to writing, editing, designing, proofing and printing.

Indeed, some would say that regardless of the passion or pursuit, talent alone isn't enough. Instead, what is needed is the discipline of doing something daily to nurture whatever it is that’s important.

For this reason, when you’re chasing a big purposeful goal, day-to-day progress is vital. And the rationale is simple. The accomplishment of any big goal requires momentum. Besides, momentum can act as a stimulus that builds positive thinking, driving us in the right direction.

With this in mind, if you can commit to doing at least one thing each day that takes you closer to your goal, you’ll likely to develop successful, productive habits that’ll hopefully give you the mental tenacity and grit to go the distance.

Besides, there is nothing like getting a few triumphs and victories under your belt to keep you motivated, energised and committed.