Start with Small Steps

Discover why most New Year’s resolutions crumble before the month ends. It’s not laziness; it's about starting too big too fast. Learn the power of small steps that make goals easier to achieve. Explore practical micro-habits like reading a page or putting on workout clothes. Focus on consistency rather than perfection, and remember to adapt to tough days. Pick one or two areas to concentrate on and visualize your goals for lasting change. Start today and redefine what success looks like!

Explore the fascinating ways our minds inflate minor issues into major crises, often overlooking real dangers. Learn how to distinguish between urgency and importance, focusing on what truly matters for your well-being. Discover personal stories that illustrate this struggle, along with practical techniques to cultivate calm perspective. From physical resets to thoughtful questioning, find out how to avoid unnecessary stress and reclaim your focus. Train your brain to recognize true threats versus perceived ones, and practice a healthier, balanced mindset.

The Doors of Possibility – Living with the Gift of MaybeIn this episode, I explore how uncertainty, instead of being our enemy, can actually be our greatest source of growth. Inspired by The Gift of Maybe by Allison Carmen, I reflect on how we can shift our mindset from fear and rigidity to curiosity and openness—one small step at a time.I share a few tools that have changed my life, especially when facing uncertainty or big decisions. These aren’t complex frameworks but simple, powerful mental exercises that invite peace, clarity, and even joy into difficult or confusing situations.Top Topics DiscussedThe Door of VisualizationI explain how imagining life decisions as “doors” can give us clarity we didn’t even know we had. Our bodies often know what we want before our minds do. This tool helps us listen to that inner wisdom.The Elevator of MaybeWhen things feel overwhelming, this mental image of an elevator gives us a pause from overthinking. It’s a neutral space—where no assumptions exist—and it helps us return to the present moment.Breaking the Routine with Small ShiftsSometimes, it’s not about grand gestures. I share how changing my morning routine opened up more joy and freedom in my life. Tiny acts of “maybe” lead to massive internal change.The Possibility JournalI talk about how this tool helps track “what if” experiments in life, from trying new habits to breaking old thought patterns. It’s a gentle, low-pressure way to embrace growth.TakeawaysThe biggest takeaway from this episode is that we don’t need to have all the answers. Life is unpredictable. But within that unpredictability lies opportunity. When we stop catastrophizing and start experimenting—even a little—we invite transformation.Fear is often loud, but it isn’t always true. Maybe helps us pause, breathe, and take the next small step. Whether you’re starting something new or stuck in a familiar loop, just asking “what if” can be the beginning of a better path.The tools shared in this episode—doors, elevators, journals—are just ways to bring more awareness to our thoughts and feelings. They’re invitations to stop running from uncertainty and start living within it, fully and with hope. Jill’s Linkshttp://jillfromthenorthwoods.com https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallstepshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallstepshttps://twitter.com/schmernEmail the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

Explore the emotional journey through uncertainty, emphasizing that small worries can morph into overwhelming fears. Jill shares a personal cancer scare, revealing how planning and fear can amplify suffering. Inspired by 'The Gift of Maybe,' the discussion highlights the power of embracing the word 'maybe' as a mental reset. Listeners are encouraged to question their inner critic and recognize worry as an unreliable narrator. The conversation ends on a hopeful note, urging openness to possibilities rather than succumbing to regret.

The discussion dives deep into the paradox of comfort, revealing how the quest for security can trap us in predictability. The host shares personal anecdotes of chaos turning into a controlled life and highlights the anxiety that change can trigger, even when it’s positive. Inspired by the concept of 'maybe,' the conversation emphasizes how this simple word can unlock new possibilities and encourage growth. Listeners are urged to rethink their addiction to certainty, allowing for a more expansive and fulfilling life.

Feel Better in Five: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference In this episode, we’re revisiting the powerful teachings from Feel Better in Five by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee. It’s a book that has resonated deeply because of its practical, compassionate approach to health. Instead of aiming for massive lifestyle overhauls, Chatterjee introduces a system of five-minute “health snacks”—simple, actionable steps that make caring for your mind, body, and heart accessible to everyone. The Health Snack PhilosophyWe break down the core concept of health snacks—tiny five-minute actions designed to reduce stress, improve focus, and boost energy. These aren't big changes, but they’re consistent, achievable steps that can truly shift your well-being over time.Three Pillars of Well-Being: Mind, Body, HeartThis episode explores how wellness isn’t just about physical fitness. We look at how small practices—like deep breathing, stretching, or emotional check-ins—can rejuvenate not just the body, but also your mental clarity and emotional resilience.Health Recipes and CustomizationDr. Chatterjee’s idea of “recipes” that combine mind, body, and heart actions is a game-changer. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, low energy, or back pain, pairing specific actions together creates powerful results. And you’re encouraged to create your own.Practical Applications in Daily LifeFrom watching calming nature videos to going for quick walks, we talk about real-life examples of how these tiny practices can become sustainable habits. The point isn’t to be perfect—it’s to be present and intentional.Takeaways:This episode is a reminder that taking care of yourself doesn’t require a gym membership or a full-day retreat. It can start with five mindful minutes. By embracing small actions and dropping perfectionism, you build momentum and confidence in your ability to support your health.You’ll come away with ideas for crafting your own personal “health snack” routine, recognizing patterns in your day when a quick mental, physical, or emotional reset can make a real difference. This isn’t about doing everything right—it’s about doing something kind for yourself, every day. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/transforming-your-life-one-health-snack-at-a-time/ Jill’s Linkshttps://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallstepshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallstepshttps://twitter.com/schmernEmail the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

RESTART: How to Reignite Momentum When You've Lost Your NerveIn this episode, we explore a very real and universal experience—losing steam on a project, a goal, or a dream. Whether it’s due to fear, exhaustion, confusion, or just plain overwhelm, everyone has hit that point where moving forward feels impossible. But the good news? You can restart. And often, it just takes one tiny step.I unpack the RESTART framework—an empowering, practical strategy to help you reignite your spark and build momentum again. From managing friction to overcoming fear, we talk about the small actions that lead to big changes. Why Momentum Fades:We explore the psychology behind lost momentum—why motivation disappears and how friction, fear, and confusion contribute to project paralysis.The RESTART Framework:Each letter of RESTART offers a practical strategy. We discuss removing shame, identifying friction, and starting with the smallest possible steps to build back energy.Fear and the Brain:Fear isn’t just psychological—it’s biological. Learn how your nervous system responds to pressure and why creativity shuts down when fear kicks in.Real Life Example – The Patio Story:I share a personal story about building a patio—how excitement turned into fear, and how micro-steps helped me finish. This illustrates that even big wins start small.Tools for Courage:We explore how to shrink big fears into manageable steps, how to build courage like a muscle, and how to normalize fear as a signal of meaningful work.Takeaways:Momentum doesn’t die—it erodes. But action rebuilds it. Shame, fear, and perfectionism often pose as valid reasons to stop, but they’re just signs that something matters. Starting small, building in rewards, adjusting expectations, and getting accountability can create powerful forward movement.Remember: You’re not behind, you’re between chapters. Restarting isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. And courage isn’t a trait you’re born with—it’s something you can grow. Today might be your day to light the match and begin again. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/how-to-restart-when-youve-lost-momentum-lessons-on-courage-fear-and-small-steps/ Jill’s Linkshttps://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallstepshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallstepshttps://twitter.com/schmernEmail the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

Explore the powerful role of rest as a crucial ally in productivity rather than a setback. Discover seven distinct types of rest that rejuvenate various aspects of life, from physical and emotional to creative and spiritual. Learn about the 90-minute work cycles backed by neuroscience and how simple breaks can enhance clarity and creativity. Delve into spiritual traditions of rest and practical tips like digital Sabbaths and short resets. Ultimately, understand that intentional rest reconnects you with joy and purpose, proving it's essential for a balanced life.

From Chaos to Calm: The Life-Changing Power of Macro Organization Macro-Organizing Your Life: One Zone at a Time" This episode explores the transformative power of macro-organization—a practical, no-shame approach to tackling clutter by assigning every space a clear purpose. Clutter often accumulates not from laziness, but from emotional overwhelm, decision fatigue, and fear of not being prepared. Whether it’s a home filled with duplicate umbrellas or a kitchen too chaotic to cook in, clutter can steal peace, productivity, and self-confidence. This episode offers a roadmap for reclaiming space, rebuilding self-trust, and simplifying life—one room, one drawer, one purpose at a time. Understanding Emotional Clutter: Clutter is often tied to emotional habits, such as scarcity thinking or attachment to past versions of ourselves. Many people hold onto items for a “someday” that may never come, or to avoid the fear of needing something later and not having it.Why Decluttering Often Fails: Traditional item-by-item approaches, like asking if an object “sparks joy,” can lead to decision fatigue. This episode breaks down why people get stuck in the sorting process and how macro-categorization can simplify everything.The Power of Macro-Organization: The episode lays out a system of zoning—assigning each room, closet, and drawer a specific function. Instead of deciding whether to keep something, start by deciding where it belongs. This method reduces mental exhaustion and creates a sense of clarity and control.The Endowment Effect and Future Planning: Many struggle with letting go of items because they overvalue what they already own. There's also a tendency to plan for hypothetical future selves—whether it’s a forgotten craft hobby or emergency prep scenario. The solution? Create a small “someday” box and stay focused on the present.Breaking the Rebuy Cycle: When homes are disorganized, it’s common to lose items and rebuy them, leading to more clutter. The episode discusses how clear zones and intentional storage can break this costly and frustrating cycle.Takeaways:Clutter isn’t a moral failure—it’s often a coping mechanism. Macro-organization is a gentle but powerful way to create structure and restore self-trust. By giving each space a clear identity and grouping items into zones, it becomes easier to locate what’s needed and let go of what’s not. Progress doesn’t require perfection; it simply begins with defining what belongs where. This episode offers both practical tools and compassionate encouragement for anyone overwhelmed by a disordered home and looking to take the first step toward calm and clarity. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/from-chaos-to-calm-the-life-changing-power-of-macro-organization/ Jill’s Linkshttps://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallstepshttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallstepshttps://twitter.com/schmernEmail the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed healthcare provider, psychiatrist, or counselor. Any advice or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.

Discover the transformative power of eliminating noise in your life. Learn how every 'yes' can sneakily take away from your priorities. Explore the four types of distractions that clutter your mental and emotional space. Embrace intentional living by shifting from 'I have to' to 'I choose to.' Get practical tips like the Three-List Declutter Strategy and insights from Warren Buffett's focus rule. Say no strategically to reclaim your time and ensure you keep your main goals in sight.