Turn the Mountain Into a Molehill: A Simple Way to Reach Big Goals
Sometimes our goals feel monstrous. They loom over us, massive and intimidating, making progress feel impossible before we’ve even begun. When a goal feels too big, it can drain our motivation, create anxiety, and even leave us feeling discouraged or depressed. Often, the result is procrastination—or abandoning the goal altogether.
The problem usually isn’t the goal itself. It’s how we’re approaching it.
Here’s a simple mindset shift that can turn what feels like a mountain into a manageable molehill.
1. Clearly Define the Goal
Start by determining exactly what you want to achieve. Vague goals feel heavier than they need to be. Clarity brings direction, and direction makes progress possible.
Ask yourself:
What does success actually look like?
2. Break It Into Sequential Steps
Once your goal is defined, break it down into a series of small, logical steps. These should be actions you can realistically complete without feeling overwhelmed. Think of them as stepping stones rather than a single giant leap.
3. Temporarily Disregard the Goal
This step is critical and often overlooked.
Once you’ve created your steps, mentally set the goal aside. Stop staring at the summit. Instead, focus only on step one. Not step two. Not the finish line. Just the very next action in front of you.
Big goals overwhelm us because we try to carry the entire weight at once.
4. Complete One Step at a Time
Finish step one. Then move on to step two. Each completed step builds momentum and confidence. Progress becomes visible, and motivation replaces anxiety.
5. Let Progress Do the Work
Before you know it, you’ll look back and realize you’re much closer than you ever expected—or that you’ve already reached your goal. What once felt impossible became achievable simply by changing your approach.
Final Thought
Big goals don’t require heroic effort all at once; they require consistency, focus, and the courage to take the next small step. When you stop trying to conquer the mountain and start walking the path, the journey becomes not only manageable but empowering.
