We know change is needed but don’t often know where to start. Or perhaps we simply don’t know how to accomplish perfection.
Thankfully, while we need vision, perfection is not required to start working toward better. More often than not, we simply need the courage to just start.
Perhaps we want a better marriage or to get out of debt. Or maybe we want to bridge the divide with those who are different or develop a truly intimate relationship with God.
It’s easy to become paralyzed when the good we desire seems so far away. We’re overwhelmed with considerations as there’s no one clear path forward.
And there’s also fear of making things worse. What if we say or do the wrong thing and the situation blows up in our face?
It’s probably safe to say our first efforts at change won’t be perfect. In fact, our first steps are naturally shaky.
But this is all that’s required – to just start. Much of what we need for the journey we will learn on the way.
We might start by simply naming what we want to see different. Naming an issue allows our vision to become clearer and this by itself likely sheds light on our next steps.
Starting the conversation is another good place to begin. We don’t have to have all the answers, but having an honest dialogue with each other in which we’re truly listening opens many doors.
We can also take the time to educate ourselves on the issues. In addition to learning from each other, there are countless books, podcasts, and resources we can use to gain a deeper appreciation of the issues before us.
And finally, we must simply practice the change we already know to make. Of course we’ll learn more as we go – but let’s put into practice what we know today.
It’s okay to pause for just a moment. The magnitude of a situation often demands it.
But don’t delay change waiting on a perfect response. Have the courage to just start – and stay humble as you learn better.
Photo by Jukan Tateisi on Unsplash
