Just Take the Next Right Step

When I struggled to visualize how to encapsulate the myriad details I envisioned, it often left me paralyzed. The inability to foresee every step resulted in me quitting before I even began. On occasion, I attempted to illustrate something I believed I understood, only to find myself adrift, unsure whether I was still drawing reality or merely executing what my mind assumed was there.

In previous instances, reaching this impasse led me to conclude that intricate drawing was beyond my capabilities. Although I learned to persevere even when I despised my output, I lacked a clear alternative. Typically, I would abandon my initial vision and resort to loose sketches or switch to incorporating patterns and shapes in place of what lay before me. I would forfeit my plan because I couldn’t envision the steps required to achieve it.

One evening, while tackling a realistic pencil sketch of a succulent, I hit a wall. Overwhelmed and unsure of which leaf I was even rendering, I froze, burdened by the time I had invested without yielding satisfactory results. Frustration consumed me as I considered my wasted effort and perceived failure. Yet, rather than surrendering, I shifted my focus from the overwhelming amount left to do. I decided to concentrate on a single leaf and work until it more closely resembled what I saw. I repeated this process until, by the end, I had created a drawing that bore a striking resemblance to my original vision.

This Approach Applies to Life Too

My tenure in the alcohol industry was fulfilling until the pandemic struck, abruptly stripping away the elements I cherished—engaging with buyers, organizing events, collaborating with representatives. Anxiety led to increased drinking, yet I grew weary of alcohol. Even as restrictions eased, the excitement remained absent. I felt restless and uncertain about my next steps.

In response, I gravitated towards activities that brought me joy, such as creating art and hosting small gatherings instead of frequenting bars. While this shift didn’t clarify my professional direction, it illuminated the values I held dear. As I sought my next step, I recognized that fostering creativity and distancing myself from alcohol was essential.

A pivotal moment arrived when I reached out to a former colleague who had transitioned from a vodka brand to a cannabis company he adored. This conversation ultimately led to a job offer from that very company six months later. When faced with the decision to accept the offer, I grappled with uncertainty about whether this was the right long-term path for my career. Yet, I realized this opportunity was a step toward the life I envisioned.

The future remains uncertain. I cannot predict whether I will evolve into the artist I aspire to be or abandon this pursuit like before. I don’t know if I will remain with the same company or in the same state. Given the unpredictable nature of the past decade, certainty seems elusive. What I can do is assess my current position and select the next right step to guide me, and the world, closer to my aspirations.

If You’re Unsure of the Steps, Aim Smaller

Sometimes, the most effective way to initiate progress is to concentrate solely on your immediate surroundings, rather than fixating on the endpoint. This strategy has proven beneficial in various aspects of my life, from tidying up my home to nurturing relationships. For instance, when my child approached me about self-harm, I was engulfed in fear and uncertainty. What was the appropriate response? Should I rush them into therapy, or would panicking hinder their willingness to confide in me later? Ultimately, I decided to take the initial step I felt was right. I remained composed, embraced them, and expressed gratitude for their openness. The subsequent steps unfolded gradually, but we successfully navigated through it.

Even if your only awareness is that you wish to escape your current situation, identify a small action you can take to move further away. If you lack clarity on that step, consider breaking it down even further. If you’re still unsure, reduce it again. Perhaps the only viable next step you recognize is to allow yourself to rest. If so, embrace that. After each step, find comfort in your progress. Once you feel secure, take the next one. The path may not lead where you initially anticipated, but it will undoubtedly be an improvement over your current circumstances.

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