Why Momentum Should be Your Main Focus

Let's face it: life can suck and feel really stressful at times. That's probably why you are here. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the ups and downs of self-improvement and discipline.

But here’s the good news! Momentum—not perfection—is the real key to our success. Embracing this idea can transform your journey into a joyride. You don't need a 100% to pass a class. School can teach you that much.

So, lets learn some examples of how to build momentum easily.

1. Start Small

Ever experienced that rush of energy when you're on a roll? Similar to when you're reading a book and it gets so good you need to take a break from it and pace. But remember, this burst of motivation has to start somewhere. Starting small is the best approach.

Aim to read just ten pages of a book or jog for five minutes—taking any step is better than taking none. Even 1 page every 1 hour is a good goal. If that seems like it may be too much, try reading one page or 5 pages a day.

It's all about making a routine for you, no one can judge you if they don't know, and honestly no one will care what you do.

Beginning small helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed and allows gradual growth. Just like stacking LEGO blocks, adding one piece at a time will lead to a tower.

For instance, research shows that individuals who set small, manageable goals are 35% more likely to achieve their larger objectives over time.

A compact stack showcasing vibrant LEGO blocks untouched by failure.

2. Embrace Imperfection

Imperfection can often feel like discouraging or like you aren't trying as hard. But guess what? When you embrace it, you open yourself up to creativity and growth. For example, cooking is a great way to experiment.

I know nothing about cooking, so, like anyone, I was following a recipe. Spoiler, it didn't taste too great. This helped me learn to not combine oatmeal with strawberries (I was hungry and bored, not a good combination, don't judge me).

Fortunately, I was able to make it seem like it was on purpose! Research shows that 70% of successful people find ways to learn from their mistakes. By letting go of the need for a perfect outcome, you're likely to discover new passions and keep your momentum going!

3. Keep Your Eye on the Prize

What is your end goal? Whether you're aiming to write a novel or train for a half-marathon, it's crucial to stay focused on your prize.

Write your goals down, visualize them, and keep them in view every day.

That day reminded me of why I started and helped me bounce back. It’s all about getting back in the groove and realigning with your goals and not sitting or lying down all day.

4. Celebrate the Small Wins

Did you finally tackle that daunting email or finish an overdue workout? Celebrate it! Small rewards can be as simple as treating yourself to a piece of chocolate without the consequences of sugar, big w!

Celebrating small wins adds a fun element to the sometimes-tedious aspects of self-improvement.

Life is literally all about perspective, everything you see or do is based off what you think so think of it positively and your life will seem way better.

5. Share Your Journey

There is incredible power in sharing your journey. Fina friend to compete with, to motivate yourself with, have occasional arm wrestling or workouts together. Compete have fun, joke, it's still life and you should still enjoy it.

Remember, laughter over failures can turn setbacks into steppingstones! Happiness has shown to increase willingness to do things.

6. Stay Flexible

Being flexible helps you adapt without losing momentum. If your plans go awry, be ready to pivot instead of giving up. A plan B is always nice to have. Scheduled something that came up at the same time? Try mixing them both in or moving one back or changing your schedule.

Things can be arranged.

An open running track waiting for fitness enthusiasts, minus the rain.

7. Reflect on Your Process

When was the last time you paused to think about your progress? I struggle to do this consistently as well but when I do, I promise you it makes the next day seem like I have something to focus on and do!

And if done right, reflection is actually kind of fun, it's practically you just talking to yourself and I feel we all do that already!

8. Learn from Failures

Failure sucks, at the moment...Instead of shying away from it, welcome it. Each failure comes with valuable lessons, akin to unexpected plot twists in a great story. Instead of dwelling in self-pity, take the time to assess what went wrong and adjust your strategies.

You didn't lose because you were unlucky, you got unlucky because you put yourself in that position where your wins relied on luck and that's not a win. You need to learn what went wrong so you can put yourself in a better position to win.

Wrapping Things Up

Momentum isn't just about small wins, it is enjoying your so called "failures" and turning them into small wins. I personally feel it's better to have 10 small wins than 10 failures.