Little Steps, Big Changes
In our fast-paced world, we often focus on big changes and immediate results. We chase after grand milestones and sometimes overlook the quiet power of small, consistent steps. Yet, as I’ve learned through my journey with my daughter Charli the most meaningful transformations often start with those tiny, and consistent everyday efforts.
Charli turned 1 this week (I am still in shock over here.) She came into this world with a resilience and determination I have rarely seen. With that said, because of her early arrival, she has been working hard to catch up on developmental milestones like rolling over and sitting up. Every day, we dedicate time to practice, play, and build her confidence. For months, her progress felt slow—incremental at best. But today, all that effort paid off: Charli rolled over on her own for the first time.
This wasn’t just a milestone to celebrate—it was proof of a deeper truth. Little steps, done consistently, create big changes.
One of my favorite podcasts, introduced me to this metaphor, and it is something that I see and experience on a regular basis.
Imagine two ladders, both the same height. One ladder has big gaps between each rung, requiring you to stretch and struggle to reach the next step. The other ladder has many small, closely spaced rungs. While each step on the second ladder might feel small and slow, they’re manageable. Over time, you reach the top of both ladders—but how you get there feels completely different.
The ladder with the big gaps often leads to frustration or failure when the steps are too far apart to climb. The ladder with small rungs allows steady progress, building strength and confidence along the way.
When it comes to growth—whether it’s developmental milestones, personal goals, or relationships—the ladder with small, consistent steps is the one that gets you there with resilience and grace.
This metaphor holds true in one of the most challenging yet rewarding relationships—parenting. In my work with families, I’ve seen how easy it is to feel disconnected from your kids. Misunderstandings, emotional highs and lows, and the ever-changing dynamics can make it tempting to look for dramatic solutions: a heartfelt conversation, a big gesture, or a total reset.
But just like with Charli’s milestones—or the small-rung ladder—building a meaningful connection with your child comes down to consistent, intentional actions over time.
Building Bridges, One Step at a Time
Creating connection with your child looks like:
Showing up daily: Being present during ordinary moments—car rides, family meals, or even when they seem withdrawn.
Listening without judgment: Asking about their day and truly hearing their answers, even if they’re brief or dismissive.
Investing in the relationship: Sharing moments of joy, whether through a quiet walk, a favorite show, or simply sitting together.
These small gestures may seem inconsequential at the time. But over weeks, months, and years, they send a powerful message: I see you. I value you. I’m here for you.
What Are Your Little Steps?
Whether you’re helping a baby reach milestones, guiding families through the challenges of parenting, or striving toward a personal goal, the path you take matters. The big rewards we seek often come not from giant leaps but from small, consistent actions—one manageable rung at a time.
So, which ladder are you climbing? And what little steps are you taking today to create big changes in your life or relationships? I’d love to hear your thoughts—let’s keep the conversation going.