I humbly acknowledge that I have been trying to write this piece for over two weeks. As I look back over this period and then consider the topic, I find it rather paradoxical that I have struggled to such an extent to take the first steps of proverbially putting pen to paper in order to make this piece a reality. All that to say, I guess just getting started writing this is at least some evidence of the statement’s truth. Well, enough of that, let’s get to it.
“The First Step is the Hardest” is an idiom / proverb that we have all heard, and as we will see, I am also sure that at some point, we have also experienced. So, what exactly does this phrase mean? The truth is that this phrase will likely mean something a little different to each one of us due to the variety of our life experiences. However, as I have done a little research, I did find a rather generic meaning that is likely similar to how each of us would define it.
The hardest part of a process is always the beginning; things get easier afterward.
Starting is the most difficult part of any task
We can take these definitions literally or figuratively, and I believe they are just as true.
Why is the first step the hardest? What holds us back? Here are a few possibilities:
- Fear of Failure – The Fear of Failure is the greatest inhibitor to success. We have failed and fallen; we have the scrapes and scars both literal and figurative to prove it. We remember that pain and don’t really want to feel it again.
- Fear of the Unknown – The world we live in is changing so fast that you never know what unknown danger lurks around the next corner. If we set out on a new path, we have a dream and hope of where our path with take us, but because there are so many unknowns between where we are and where we want to be we are too scared to start the journey.
- Contentment – Unfortunately, this is not the good kind of contentment. This is the contentment that leads to complacency. We surrender and settle for less than what we are personally capable of and settle into lives that are OK but not near as good as they could be. We are surviving from day to day, but not truly living. We get by, but we are not truly happy.
- Lack of Motivation – We have all been there; there is something that you need and even want to do, but there was just no “get up and do it” inside. There are any number of possible reasons for this, including some that are mentioned on this list.
- Laziness – And finally, any journey, whether it is a physical one or a figurative one, requires energy and effort. Change, growth, and success require work. There are times in our lives we just are not willing to put for the effort and do the work.
That leads to the next question, How do we break through these barriers and take that all important first step?
- Focus on the “Now” – “Carpe’ diem” or “Seize the day.” We must live in the here and now facing the trials that day offers. When we spend too much time looking back, especially focused on our failures or looking forward worrying about what is to come, we are unable to recognize the obstacles that lie right in front of us so as to overcome them.
- One step at a time – This goes perfectly with one above. Whatever the task, rather than looking at it as one large thing to be done, break it down into smaller and doable steps. Then, focus on just the step you are on. I know it’s kind of a funny illustration, but I have a question for you, “How do you eat an elephant?” The answer is “One bite at a time.”
- Find your “Why.” – What is your purpose? What good will come out of this, for yourself, for others? Why is this important to you? By answering and reminding yourself of these questions, you will find the motivation to take that first step.
Actions speak louder than words – We have all been there ,stuck “in our heads” and paralyzed from doing anything. Sometimes, we need to stop thinking and just jump! We have to focus on doing, not on thinking. - Celebrate Progress – Once we are taking steps and making progress, no matter how small we think it is, we need to recognize, acknowledge, and celebrate that progress. If we break the task down into steps as mentioned above, completion of each of those steps is a perfect opportunity for celebrating.
Once we take that first step, why does the journey get easier?
- A body in motion remains in motion – Once we get out of our heads and actually take that first step and are moving forward, then we break the inertia of inactivity and stagnation. Once we are moving, we realize another principle typically associated with physics, momentum. Once we are moving, each step gets easier as we are no longer held back by the fear and other issues that had restrained us. It’s like walking down a hill: momentum almost pushes us forward.
- Confidence begets confidence – Once we realize the courage to take that first step and experience the momentum mentioned above, we find confidence and courage to keep taking the next step. With each step, we become more and more confident in our ability to be successful.
- Knowledge is’ Power – One place that this confidence comes from is knowledge and wisdom. Each step is full of experiences that will teach us new lessons and add to our wisdom for this task/journey and those that lie ahead.
- Progress is addictive – As we gain more and more momentum growing on confidence and knowledge, we start to experience real progress and a sense of accomplishment. Success feels GOOD. So, we keep moving, wanting to maintain that good feeling.
My friends, no matter the challenge(s) you face, face your fear head on, break the chains of contentment, and find the courage to take that first step. In due time, you will look back with joy and pride when you realize how much you have grown and that you have achieved. Having completed one journey, prepares you for the next.
Come on, take that step, you will be glad you did!