As a child, historical methods fascinated me, particularly how people in ancient times traveled – they walked everywhere. As someone raised in this century, the idea of walking to every destination seems unimaginable. Yet our ancestors embarked on incredible journeys by foot, making connections and discoveries along their path, persevering until they reached their destination.
This is probably why Chinese philosopher, Lao Tzu said ‘The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step’. As a man from the 6th century B.C. walking long distances would hardly have been foreign to him. And on one of the long hard journeys he had to travel, he discovered the secret power of consistency in bringing you closer to your destination.
The same ancient wisdom rings through in the Spanish saying “Poco a poco se anda lejos”- little by little, one travels far .
In a world that often prioritizes instant results, this age-old advice serves as a reminder that the most fulfilling accomplishments typically arise from steady, consistent effort rather than sudden leaps.
The power of small steps
We live in an era filled with stories of overnight success and viral fame. However, these tales often hide the years of hard work that lie beneath the surface. Genuine growth involves embracing the gradual nature of progress. When you find yourself frustrated by the pace of your journey, remind yourself that every expert was once a novice, and every significant achievement began with a single step.
The challenge lies not only in taking action but also in maintaining patience when progress feels slow. This is where the “poco a poco” mindset becomes essential. Each small victory builds on the previous one, laying the groundwork for enduring success.
Finding Joy in the Journey
The beauty of the “poco a poco” approach is its sustainability. Instead of facing the burnout that often accompanies aggressive goal-chasing, you can take pleasure in daily progress – whether you’re building a business, mastering a skill, or pursuing a personal goal.
Take a moment to appreciate the small improvements: the workout that feels less challenging than before or the professional hurdle you tackle with increasing confidence. These moments of progress become opportunities for both growth and enjoyment.
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (2006) found that making progress towards a goal, even small steps, can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. This positive feedback loop reinforces the pleasure associated with the journey.
Another research by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a leading expert on the psychology of optimal experience, has shown that engaging in challenging activities that require skill and focus can lead to a state of flow. During flow, individuals experience a sense of deep enjoyment, immersion, and a loss of self-consciousness. This state can be experienced during the pursuit of goals, especially when the activity itself is intrinsically rewarding.
Building Your Support System
Another major factor that determines and shapes your journey is the community you travel with. No significant journey happens in isolation. You must surround yourself with people who understand and support your commitment to gradual growth. Seek out mentors who have traveled similar paths and can provide valuable guidance. Join communities of like-minded individuals and organisations who share your values and aspirations.
Keep in mind that support can take many forms – from the friend who checks in on your progress to the online community that offers resources and encouragement. These connections provide both accountability and inspiration for your journey.
Celebrating Milestones Along the Way
While the emphasis is on small, consistent steps, don’t overlook the importance of recognizing significant milestones especially those peculiar to you. These celebrations are not just rewards; they serve as motivation for ongoing progress. Find meaningful ways to commemorate your achievements, whether it’s treating yourself to something special, sharing your success with loved ones, or simply taking a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come.
Your Path Forward
As you embark on your own “poco a poco” journey, remember that steady progress accumulates over time. Your daily choices – to practice, learn, and show up – are building blocks that accumulate into lasting achievement. While the path may be longer than anticipated, consistency and perseverance will not only lead you to your destination but transform you into someone stronger and wiser for having embraced each step of the way.
Bravewood provides Nigerian professionals with low-risk, high-return investment products, licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
