How to Chunk Down Big Goals
When you’re faced with a big goal, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re starting a business, planning a life event, or tackling a personal challenge, the size of your ambition can be intimidating. I’ve been there—walking across America in 2024 was one of the biggest goals I ever set for myself. The sheer size of it was overwhelming. However, one simple strategy made it manageable: the “Frog in a Pond” approach.
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What Is the “Frog in a Pond” Goal Setting Strategy?
This strategy helps you break down a large goal into smaller, more achievable steps. Think of it as a frog hopping from one lily pad to the next across a pond. Rather than focusing on the entire pond, you can focus on the next closest lily pad. This makes the goal feel more manageable and keeps you motivated as you achieve each step.
When I planned my walk across America, I applied this approach. Instead of seeing the entire 2,600-mile journey, I identified major cities along the way as my “lily pads.” Starting from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, I set goals to reach cities like Columbia, Atlanta, and beyond. By focusing on reaching each destination, I was able to keep moving forward.
How You Can Apply This Strategy
- Identify Your Start and End Points
Start by clearly defining where you are and where you want to be. For instance, if you’re starting a business, your start might be zero customers, and your end could be earning $100,000 in revenue. - Break the Journey Into Steps
Next, break the big goal into smaller, more manageable milestones. What are the key steps you need to take to reach your end goal? For a business, this might include choosing a name, getting your first customer, and building a referral program. - Take Daily Action
Focus on taking the next step, no matter how small. Each day, ask yourself, “What’s the next step I can take right now?” Whether it’s sending an email, posting on social media, or making a phone call, every small action moves you closer to your next lily pad. - Celebrate Small Win and Reflect
As you reach each milestone, take time to celebrate. Recognizing small wins builds momentum and reinforces that you’re capable of achieving your larger goal.
Why This Goal Setting Strategy Works
The “Frog in a Pond” strategy works because it simplifies big goals into smaller, actionable steps. By focusing on short-term goals, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and keep moving forward. Each lily pad you reach proves that you’re making progress and gives you the motivation to keep going.
If you’d like to learn more strategies for breaking down big goals, I invite you to join my Never Peak: The First Steps community. There, I share more insights from my walk across America and how you can apply them to your business, life, or personal challenges.
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Join my free Skool community for weekly accountability calls and connect with others who are also striving toward their goals. Sign up here.
This strategy helped me walk across the country, and I know it can help you conquer whatever challenge you’re facing!