“A journey of a thousand miles begins with single step” – Chinese proverb

In a world of instant gratification and right now mentality many of us just stay put rather than trying to start at all. Goals. yes. Dreams. yes. Ideas. plenty. Yet, we stay stagnant day after day – year after year – because the task just seems too daunting.

What if you could break down the large daunting task into smaller manageable tasks?
What if your entire dream or goal is dependent on the small steps you take today?

It is possible and what you do today does matter. So let’s dive in.

One powerful strategy we will talk about today is the Rule of 5. It’s a simple, but effective tool we can use on a daily basis.

Here it is:

Every day, do 5 things that will move you closer to your goal – 5 concrete steps.

If you are wanting to lose 10 pounds, do 5 things each day to get you there.

• Cut out one soda per day.
• Replace that soda with a glass of water.
• Take a 10 minute walk at lunchtime.
• Add a serving of vegetables to each meal.
• Get an extra hour of sleep per night.

If you are wanting to run a marathon, do 5 things this week that move you in that direction.

• Incorporate a daily stretch routine.
• Strength train at least 15 minutes per day.
• Set your weekly mileage run goal.
• Add protein and healthy fats to your diet.
• Commit to rest and recharge time after your runs and workouts.

If you are wanting to read the Bible through this year, commit your time and efforts on a daily basis to do that.

• Spend time each day in prayer and meditation before and after reading.
• Find a plan that will break down the verses/chapters for you to complete in one year.
• Commit to 30 minutes per day in reading time.
• Use journaling to help you retain high points during your study.
• Find an accountability partner or reading buddy to come alongside you.

You see, the sum of the larger goals are actually made up of the smaller daily tasks.
This compound effect highlights just how beneficial small steps and changes can be when they add up over time.

I’ve created a worksheet that may help you with your daily goals and tasks. Having a tangible goal sheet works well for me.

Download the Rule of 5 Worksheet here.

Find a system that works for you in keeping up with your daily steps toward your goal.

Remember, it’s not what you know to do that counts – it’s what you actually do that matters