STRONGER TOGETHER: The Power of Small Steps, Consistently

"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the importance of taking small, consistent steps towards achieving long-term goals, as highlighted by her conversation with Mat Grills on the IMPACT’s Stronger Together podcast.

By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea

Tanya OShea IMPACT Community Services Managing Director

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Mat Grills for the latest episode of IMPACT’s Stronger Together podcast. Mat is a family man, ultramarathon runner, business owner, community advocate, and all-around local legend. Our conversation was wide-ranging, from health and wellbeing, vegan diets, and training, to careers, time management, overcoming setbacks, and tattoos, but the one theme that truly resonated with me was the importance of taking small steps and repeating them consistently.

Mat shared his insights on how consistency is the foundation of success in any area of life, whether it’s business, athletics, or personal growth. He emphasised that showing up every day, even when it’s challenging, is crucial to achieving long-term goals. “You will not get results, and you won't achieve anything if you do something for a week or a month or six months. Anything worthwhile, you need to be consistent,” Mat explained.

This principle of consistency is something I have experienced firsthand. When I started my gym training, I began with simple resistance bands from Kmart. It took me 12 months of consistent effort before I felt ready to invest in a full home gym. This gradual build-up not only strengthened my physical fitness but also ingrained a habit of perseverance and dedication.

Mat also highlighted the significance of small steps. In a society that often glorifies quick fixes and overnight success, it’s easy to overlook the power of incremental progress. Mat’s approach to coaching new runners is a testament to this. For those that haven't run in some time, he encourages them to start with a five-minute walk or even just putting on their running shoes without leaving the house. Many question it, but he encourages them to “trust the process and start with small steps.” This philosophy extends beyond athletics to all areas of life, including business.

When Mat decided to open a coffee shop, he set a goal to do one or two small tasks each day towards that objective. Whether it was making a phone call, sending an email, or jotting down an idea, these daily actions accumulated over time, leading to the successful launch of his business. “These small steps and daily practices add up over time. Before you know it, you’re that much further down the road,” Mat explained.

In our community services organisation, we often see individuals feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges in front of them. The fear of failure or the uncertainty of where to start can be paralysing. This is why we advocate for picking one small thing to focus on. This approach not only reduces overwhelm but also creates a ripple effect, gradually transforming other areas of life.

As we embark on a new year, let’s embrace the power of taking that first step, no matter how small. Consistency and small steps may seem simple, but they are the building blocks of lasting change and achievement. Reflecting on Mat’s journey and my own experiences, I am reminded that progress is not always about giant leaps but about the steady, unwavering commitment to taking baby steps—just putting one foot in front of the other.

So, whether you’re starting a new fitness routine, launching a business, or pursuing personal growth, remember that big dreams are built from small beginnings. Doing one small thing every day to take you a step closer towards your goal is important. Trust the process, stay consistent, be patient and celebrate the progress you make along the way. In time, you’ll look back and realise just how far you’ve come.

Please note: This website may contain references to, or feature images, videos, and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have passed away.

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