Chapter 1: The Power of Small Achievements

Feeling overwhelmed? The key to regaining your momentum lies in accomplishing even the simplest of goals.

As a broadcaster once remarked, "What he needs to do now is throw a short pass. Just make a simple completion and get something going." This comment resonates deeply with me. During the ACC championship game, Pittsburgh was taking the lead against Wake Forest, while the latter struggled against a solid defense. The announcers understood that for Wake Forest to recover, they needed to connect on basic, short passes.

Ultimately, Wake Forest suffered a loss of 45–21, but the lesson remains clear: when life feels stagnant, achieving small wins can help you regain direction.

In the early 2000s, I faced significant turmoil in my career. I found myself floundering and unable to define my professional path amidst family challenges. After being let go from a nonprofit organization where I served as a program director, I also faced difficulties at a marketing firm I helped establish. A sales job I took on faltered due to industry changes.

Nothing seemed to be working, and my home life was chaotic. My earlier career involved writing and voicing a creative radio series focused on global cultures. Later, I transitioned into management at another nonprofit that supported my wife and me in becoming foster and adoptive parents. However, as my ideas clashed with the board, my time there came to an end.

Who was I, and what did I truly do? These fundamental questions remained unresolved, leaving me overwhelmed by my circumstances. I recognized a need for a small achievement to serve as a victory. Writing had always been a foundation of my work, so I pondered how to channel that skill.

Back then, online writing was just gaining traction. I discovered platforms like Hubpages, Associated Content, and Helium. Initially, I struggled with online writing styles while worrying about finances. However, I decided to write a few straightforward articles for Associated Content. It was nothing grand, just simple pieces, but they helped me find my rhythm.

This small endeavor led me to a position at a boutique marketing agency, where I began programming websites. I even wrote an article on Hubpages about premium gasoline in 2009. Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into SEO and visibility, eventually writing for a company that managed apartment buildings.

Those few simple articles opened the door to better opportunities. If you find yourself feeling stuck, can you identify a single "short pass" that could propel you forward?

Despite ongoing family challenges, life has gradually improved. I’m optimistic about making 2022 my best year yet in freelance writing and self-employment. The principle of achieving small wins remains critical and should be revisited repeatedly. When life becomes overwhelming, focus on making even the smallest progress.

Little victories can lead to substantial accomplishments.

Also read this companion piece:

The Power of Struggling for Success

Why does everyone else seem successful?

Chapter 2: The Importance of Planning and Taking Action

In Jack Canfield's video, "Small Steps Make Big Changes," he emphasizes how incremental actions can lead to significant transformations in your life.

Additionally, the video "Plan Your Months and Take Small Steps Toward Success" illustrates how setting achievable goals can pave the way for long-term success.

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