One Thing.

One Thing.  There is a lot going on in the world right now. Big, heavy things that can be all consuming.  Economic insecurity, food insecurity, job insecurity.  Whether you are directly impacted today or anxious about your future, the anxiety can cause you to stall; can cause a feeling of overwhelm.

The lack of momentum is staggering:  you have no idea where to start or a sense that whatever you do won’t make an impact.  I am hearing it from friends and clients.  I am feeling it myself.  

The old adage How do you boil the ocean? One cup at a time. may offer some guidance. The goal may be too big, but what is one step that you can take toward that goal?  The challenge may feel overwhelming, but what is one thing that you can do to feel empowered and active toward progress?

This time of year, there are many ways to be a part of a movement of change.  I encourage you to find what speaks to you and do one thing.

Work.  Haven’t hit your annual or quarterly goals yet?  Maybe they were too aggressive and there is a feeling that you won’t get there, so why start.  Can you take one step toward the goal or reforecast what you can achieve.  Do one thing and see if success builds momentum.  Break down complex or overwhelming strategies into individual tasks. Tackle the hardest things earliest in the day and reward yourself with the work that is more motivating or easier.  Build momentum.

Exercise and self-care.  Set an intention of doing one thing this week.  The one thing might be a walk or exercise, a class or meditation.  Set a reasonable goal and figure out how to achieve that goal.  Once is better than not at all.  And too lofty a goal can be disheartening.  Failure comes when the goal feels too unachievable.  Don’t start with 5 days, begin with one and build on that if possible. Or don’t.  The one thing you achieve may be enough for now.

Job searching.  Where to start when you are out of work and looking to make a change?  I disagree that looking for a job is a full-time job. You can’t be looking for work full time; you are dependent on others: responses, postings, the ability to apply, interview, network.  Approach the job search the way you approach work:  organize tasks, calendar outreach and follow-up, research and applications.  And include self-care. During a stressful search, your mental and physical health can support your stamina.  Do one thing today that is different from the days before.

The to-do list.  There is too much to do in the balance of the year:  holidays, celebrations, finances, end of year paperwork, social obligations, home projects, planning.  The list is endless and overwhelming.  When you are most busy may be the best time to seek guidance.  An accountability partner can help you achieve deliverables and deadlines.  That person may have no investment to the outcome, but can help you stay the course.  Can you plan out the tasks the same way you would your paid work?  One thing at a time.  Calendar what needs to be done and stay accountable to your time management.  Can you share the invisible labor with a partner?  And can you say ‘no’?  Unfortunately, you may not be able to join in every celebration this season.  And prioritizing what will have the greatest impact on your sanity may be your guide for everything else on your list.  One thing at a time.

Social impact.  There are a lot of worthy causes and people in need.  It can be so hard to choose and so easy to feel like you aren’t doing enough.  If you are in a position to donate time or financially, it may be best to set guidelines ahead of time so you can give to causes that align to your values.  Do you want to support children, families or organizations?  Is food insecurity, the environment, or the community where you want to invest?  Just like large scale foundations, identifying your purpose and focus can help you make more of an impact.  And if you are not in a position to do as much as you wish, one thing will make a difference.  If everyone did one thing, it would add up exponentially.

In this season of giving, give to yourself, give to others, stay within your means, and find one thing, when combined with others, that can lead to a greater outcome for the greater good.

Let me know how I can help.  As an accountability partner or thought partner, I can help you break down what is causing your inability to move forward.  We can start with the first cup of water and start to boil the ocean together.