Time travel warns us not to change anything in the past because even a small change can radically change the present – yet, sadly, hardly anyone in the present really thinks they can radically change the future by doing something small now.

But if we do just that – make a small, consistent change now – our future self will thank us.  It may seem underwhelming or even counterintuitive but this approach can actually give us the best hope for long term success for several reasons.

First, small changes are less daunting and more manageable to attempt leading to small daily successes and positive affirmation each time we complete the task.  This makes it easier to stay motivated and focused.   The key is to break a big goal into tiny, manageable daily tasks.  How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.

Second, small changes are more sustainable because they don’t overwhelm you.  They easily become part of your daily routine since they aren’t triggering a stress response.  This means you’re less likely to experience burnout or resistance.  You may even find yourself looking forward to having a quick an easy daily routine.  These are the building blocks to future success.

If getting physically fit is your goal, does the idea of committing to an hour-long gym session have you feeling overwhelmed?  Do you dread the thought of gathering your gym bag, driving to the gym, fighting traffic and parking, as well as all of the extra time required to accomplish this endeavor? You are far more likely to improve your physical fitness by implementing a 10 minute fast walk around your block each morning.   By making this 10-minute walk (walking as if you are late for a meeting) a non-negotiable, you are accomplishing several things.  You are committing to selfcare each morning, establishing a routine of healthier living, taking in important UV rays and vitamin D, getting your blood circulating, clearing your mind for 10 minutes as you focus on your walk, and accomplishing your first goal of the day.

Doing this every day for a week already has you on a better, more sustainable course than the start/stop of fighting your way to the gym for an hour.  This is because success rarely comes from a single grand gesture or dramatic overhaul.  It’s actually the small victories that build momentum.  It’s not just the actual walk that is beneficial, it’s all of the added benefits of that walk that lead to your future-self thanking you.

Each time you successfully implement a small change, you gain confidence and a sense of accomplishment.  This positive reinforcement can drive you to continue making further changes.  This builds momentum which pushes you to make other small goals and positive changes.

What is the Best Strategy for Harnessing the Power of Small, Consistent Changes?

First, set clear and specific goals.  What does success look like for you?  How will you measure it?  Instead of vague objective like setting a goal of getting physically fit, try instead the goal of accomplishing a daily 10-minute morning walk, rain or shine, for 5 to 7 consecutive days.  Having a bit of flexibility in your goal can also lead to success.  Research has shown that people are more apt to accomplish their goal if they set a parameter (5 to 7 consecutive days from our example above) rather than a fix number (all 7 consecutive days).

Second, create a plan.  Outline the small steps needed to achieve your goals.  For example, set your alarm for 15 minutes earlier each day giving you the time to take your walk.  Put your comfortable walking shoes by your bedside each night so they are the first thing you see each morning.

Third, develop routines.  Consistency is the key to forming new habits. Training yourself to think of going for your walk as your first thought of the day will increase your chances of actually going for the walk.  Make it part of your daily morning routine.  Incorporate your walk to follow your morning routine of brushing your teeth.

Fourth, track your progress.  This can be as simple as noting in your calendar the start of this new routine and marking off each day it is accomplished.  Noticing how many days you’ve achieved in a row can keep you motivated and provide a sense of achievement.

Finally, be patient and flexible.  Understand that progress may be slower than expected, and setbacks are part of the process. Be patient with yourself and remain flexible. Adjust your strategies as needed, but keep moving forward. Remember, the key is consistency, not perfection.

The Ripple Effect

The beauty of small changes lies in their ability to create a ripple effect. As you make small adjustments in one area of your life, you’ll likely notice improvements in other areas as well. For instance, adopting a morning 10-minute fast walking routine might boost your vitamin D levels which in turn can boost your energy levels, which could enhance your productivity at work and improve your mood.

Ultimately, success is built on the foundation of small, consistent actions. By focusing on manageable, incremental changes, you’re setting yourself up for long-term achievement and personal growth. So, embrace the power of small steps, stay committed, and watch as your consistent efforts lead to remarkable results. Success is not a destination but a journey of continuous improvement, and every small change brings you one step closer to your goals.