Small Successes Add Up to Big Successes
In the current age of instant gratification, it's good to remember small successes over time can add up to big and great successes in the long run, if only we have the patience and discipline to walk the steady walk in our endeavors. Plus, small successes keep us going, don't they?
Did you ever hear the saying, "Rome wasn't built in a day?" This well-known and often used adage is the English translation of a phrase popular in France during medieval times. It suggests it takes time and small accomplishments to build great things.
It's a good concept to remember when you're thinking about accomplishing anything that seems too big, too overwhelming, and too high of a mountain to climb, whether be in your pursuit of higher education, a healthier lifestyle, relationship building and maintenance, or spiritual development.
Break Goals Down into Manageable Objectives
Break large goals down into manageable objectives. For example, instead of committing to exercise one hour every day, a goal you may find impossible to meet given your work and family obligations, begin with 10 minutes a day. It will get you into the habit of having a small success every day, and keep you going, instead of giving up.
There's nothing magic about this concept. It's simply having the discipline and focus to do whatever it takes, even though the small successes may seem insignificant in the moment. Just like moments turn into hours, days, and lifetimes, successes add up. A successful business person once told me he was an overnight success after 12 years. He did what it took to be a success one step, one day, at a time.
"Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small. A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." Lao Tzu
The spiritual disciplines are another example. Whether it's prayer, meditation, fasting, simplicity, journaling, worship, confession, learning, or giving, doing each on a consistent basis, and seeing each as a small success, is worthy of celebration as you experience a deeper intimacy with God here and for eternity.
Small Failures also Add Up
On the flip side, when you stumble and fail to take those small steps that will eventually add up, get back up, dust yourself off, and get back on track. It's good to remember small failures can also add up. When you do stumble in any endeavor, especially in your spiritual life, turn to the get motivator for strength and courage, the Lord.
Also visit: Step By Step, Stumble by Stumble
"The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand." (Psalm 37:23-24)
