The very next thing

Little by little. One bite at a time. Bird by bird.

These phrases (not usually used together, of course) are offered as kind words of encouragement. They’re calm reminders that we can only ever do the very next thing. That big projects have little steps and we do them in sequence.

But when time runs short, morale is low, and there are miles to go before we sleep, those helpful aphorisms don’t sing sweetly. We might even have to remind ourselves of their truth through mental gritted teeth.

The concept of incremental progress can keep us on track. But sometimes, we also have to accept that the road will be difficult. “Step by step” isn’t something we worry about during the gentle downhill. It’s the reminder we need when the climb ahead looks endless.

So remind ourselves, we will.

Onwards.