Life throws curveballs at all of us. Some challenges are so big they leave you feeling stuck, unsure of where to even begin. But here’s the secret to moving forward: you don’t have to tackle the whole thing at once. You just have to take one small step. This idea—“working the problem”—is about breaking things down and taking action, little by little, until you make progress.
It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers. It’s about showing up and doing what you can. When you learn to take small, steady steps, you build resilience (the ability to bounce back) and grit (the determination to keep going). Let’s explore how to do that—even when it feels impossible.
Why Taking Small Steps Works
Here’s why this approach makes such a difference:
1. It Keeps You From Feeling Overwhelmed.
Big problems can feel like a mountain you’ll never climb. Small steps? They feel doable.
2. It Builds Momentum.
Action leads to progress, and progress keeps you motivated. Even tiny wins can be energizing.
3. It Helps You Stay Focused.
Instead of worrying about the big picture, you put your energy into the next thing you can actually do.
How to Take Small Steps Without Giving Up
When you’re in the thick of it, taking action can feel tough. Here’s how to break it down so you don’t get stuck.
- Start With What’s in Your Control
Not everything is within your power to fix, and that’s okay. Focus on what you can do.
For example, if you’re dealing with a tight budget, you can’t magically add money to your bank account, but you can create a plan to cut unnecessary expenses. Start there.
Ask yourself: What’s one thing I can do today? Keep it simple.
- Break the Problem Into Bite-Sized Pieces
Big problems are overwhelming because they’re, well, big. The trick is to break them down into smaller, manageable tasks.
For example: If you’re feeling stuck at work, instead of stressing about your entire career, start with something small. Update your resume. Reach out to a mentor for advice. Small steps add up.
Make a list of what needs to happen. Then tackle one thing at a time.
- Keep Showing Up (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
Taking small steps isn’t about doing it all perfectly. It’s about showing up, again and again, even when it’s hard.
Let’s say you’re trying to get in shape. Maybe you don’t feel like doing a full workout. That’s fine—just commit to a 10-minute walk. Even a small effort is better than none, and it keeps you in the game.
Remember: progress is better than perfection.
- Celebrate Every Small Win
This is a big one. Every little step forward is worth celebrating because it’s proof you’re making progress.
If you’re working on a big project, finishing even one small piece of it is a victory. Give yourself credit for what you’ve done—it’s a great way to stay motivated.
- Set Tiny, Specific Goals
Big goals are great, but tiny ones are the real game-changers. Instead of saying, “I’m going to write a book,” say, “I’m going to write 200 words today.”
Make sure your goals are:
• Small: So they feel doable.
• Specific: So you know exactly what to do next.
• Time-bound: So you have a deadline.
Small goals keep you moving without feeling like you’re carrying the weight of the world.
- Don’t Let Setbacks Stop You
Setbacks are part of the process. They don’t mean you’ve failed—they just mean you’re human.
If you miss a day, get off track, or feel like giving up, remind yourself: It’s okay. I can start again tomorrow.
The important thing is to keep going, no matter how many times you have to reset.
- Find Support
You don’t have to do this alone. Share your goals with someone who’ll cheer you on or hold you accountable. Having people in your corner can make all the difference.
Real-Life Inspiration
Think about people who’ve faced huge challenges and come out stronger. Take Bethany Hamilton, for example. After losing her arm in a shark attack, she didn’t return to professional surfing overnight. She took small steps—adjusting her technique, rebuilding her strength, and learning to surf again.
Or look at Thomas Edison. He didn’t invent the light bulb on his first try. He kept going, learning from every failed attempt.
These stories remind us: progress happens one step at a time.
You’ve Got This
When you’re staring down a big challenge, it’s easy to feel stuck. But you don’t have to fix everything today. Just take one small step. Then another. And another.
Before you know it, those small steps will add up to something big.
So, what’s one thing you can do right now? Take that step. Celebrate it. And keep going. You’re stronger than you think—and every step forward proves it.