1. First Step

We always hear people say; “Taking the first step is the hardest” and “the first step is admitting…” (you have a problem, you need help, etc.). It would be nice if the one and lone first steps we had to take were the steps we took learning how to walk. Regrettably, we are faced with countless first steps in which we will have the choice to take in this short life. Can you look back on all the “first steps” you took? Deciding where to go to College, let alone, deciding to go. Deciding when and who to date, get married, when to have children, buy a house… The list is endless but isn’t it exciting? I can testify through experience that first steps are incredibly thrilling and terrifying at the same time.

Once we make decision to take the first step, we are then faced with immeasurable (thousands) of obstacles. The great news about that is, like a domino-effect, the first step is our ammunition to our momentum. There will come a point when we no longer take any notice to the obstacles because we are flying by so fast, they fall over. My mind is compelled to think about my two boys, David (7) and Scott (6). They are on the same rookie baseball team (Go Yankees) this year but it wasn’t easy for them. David felt so nervous because he didn’t think he had the skill to play. Scott hated the idea of playing because he was nervous to be around the other parents (hundreds of people in their eyes), specifically during a game. My husband and I good-naturally worked with them with positive smiles and motivation, to help them find their excitement. The skills come later. The first step they needed to take was crucial to find their confidence. Their first step was to show up to their first practice.

One month later, I am pleased to report that both of our boys love going to practices and games, but they now love the game of Baseball. All because they took that one first step; showing up. Now, because they are happy now doesn’t mean it wasn’t easy or that there won’t be more obstacles in the future. The great thing we were able to teach our sons is to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Now that is out of the way, we can focus on learning the game and polishing those skills. Did you get that? The best advice I have for you, with anything you want to carry out, take that first step. Approach your boss and ask for a raise, talk to those strangers to grow your business, ask a professional trainer to help you with your new family dog! Go get uncomfortable. Like we’ve heard over and over, they even quoted it in the Greatest Showman, “there’s no growth in a comfort zone.” I guarantee you will be overwhelmed with joy and so proud of yourself that you did it.