Inch by Inch

Twenty years ago I started a face-to-face support group for people who suffer from depression. Most of us wished we could flip a switch in our brains that would restore energy, focus, and positive feelings. Of course that was not possible.

One of the participants in the group was fond of reminding us that “yard by yard is hard, but inch by inch is a cinch”—simple but fundamentally important advice.

At this time of year when New Year resolutions abound and we imagine making all kinds of changes in our lives, it's helpful for me to remember that small changes are more doable and that a longer time horizon for significant change is more realistic.

I hope that this new year brings you the change that you aspire to and that you will get there gradually and effectively. I'm reminded of a joke about managing change: “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.” I hope that you will enjoy whatever you are attempting to “devour” and savor every bite. Happy New Year!