Thinking small

Action overrides overwhelm.

But taking action isn’t always the easiest thing.

So, how do you make it easier?

Think small.

I recently took my children to see the Exquisite Creatures exhibit and at the end they had a ‘try it yourself’ area where you could try your hand at creating art similar to what you just experienced (except using magnetic images instead of real insects).

Ahead of us was a large sloppy board with magnets scattered all over it and all over the floor.

I watched my son and daughter begin to settle into this mission in front of them. I could feel myself getting a little fidgety. The exhibit was breathtaking but it was also pretty long. I was reminded of how easy it is to want to rush other people (especially littler people) to go along at our pace.

I don’t always have the energy reserve to check myself, but this time I did. I took a seat and smiled at what I witnessed.

The chaotic remains of many little hands, were slowly sorted and organized. My son took a mental count of how many of each insect was available so he would know what he had to work with.

And once all the pieces were in place, he quickly began to execute his vision. Within minutes he stepped back to admire his masterpiece.

So, this is my invitation to you -

🪲 Think small.

My children started with the smallest step of removing each and every magnet. The first step I watched was neither glamorous nor monumental. But it set my son up for success.

🐞 When you’re faced with something overwhelming. When you’re faced with something you want to begin. When you’re stuck. Think small.

Taking any action makes it easier to take another step.

Even if that action step doesn’t seem directly related to your task, you can create momentum. Once you have momentum, you can decide where to direct it.

Sending all my love and gratitude

xx