Getting Off the Starting Block: 3 Key Steps to Begin Your Journey Toward Success

Plato once said, “The beginning is the most important part of the work.” And yet, starting something new—whether it’s a project, a goal, or a career shift—often feels like the hardest part. Many people get stuck in overthinking, self-doubt, or the fear of imperfection. But the truth is, action is the only way to move from dreaming to achieving.

If you’ve been standing on the sidelines, waiting for the “perfect moment,” it’s time to step up and start. Here are three key steps to help you leave the starting block with confidence:

1. Establish Your Why and Make Sure It Drives You

Before you can take meaningful action, you need a clear sense of purpose. Why are you pursuing this goal? What will success look like to you? And most importantly, what impact will achieving this have on your life, your family, or your future?

Your “why” is your internal motivator, the thing that will push you forward when challenges arise. For example, if your goal is to advance in your career, your “why” might be providing a better quality of life for your family or achieving financial freedom.

To establish your “why”:

Write it down. Seeing it on paper makes it real.
Make it specific. “I want to be successful” is vague. “I want to grow my income by 20% this year so we can take our family on a dream vacation” is specific and motivating.
Reflect on it regularly. Keep it front and center to keep it top of mind.

When your “why” is strong enough, it will crush the doubts and excuses that try to hold you back.

2. Consider the Roadblocks Ahead

Starting something new often comes with hurdles, and ignoring them won’t make them go away. Taking time to identify potential roadblocks will help you prepare to face them head-on.

Roadblocks could include:

Lack of time
Fear of failure
Comparing yourself to others
Limited resources

Once you’ve identified your obstacles, shift your focus to solutions. For instance, if time is an issue, can you set aside 30 minutes a day to work toward your goal? If fear is holding you back, can you reframe it as an opportunity to grow and learn?

The key is to expect challenges and view them as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. Being proactive about overcoming obstacles keeps you from being derailed when they arise.

3. Build Accountability Into Your Process

Accountability is a powerful tool for turning plans into action. When we commit to someone else—whether it’s a mentor, coach, or even a friend—we’re far more likely to follow through.

To build accountability:

Share your goals with someone you trust.
Set regular check-ins to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps.
Celebrate small wins together to stay motivated.

Consider hiring a coach or joining a mastermind group where like-minded individuals can challenge and support you. Being part of a community of achievers keeps you focused and energized as you move toward your goals.

Starting is never easy. It’s messy, uncertain, and often imperfect. But it’s also the most important step in achieving your goals.

By establishing a strong “why,” anticipating roadblocks, and leaning into accountability, you can move past the fear and doubt that often present with new beginnings. Remember, success isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. So push off, leave the starting block, and trust that every step forward is a step closer to your goals.

As the saying goes, “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” Now’s the time. Let’s get moving.