Small Steps Forward After a Rough 2024 (part 1)

I know I’m not alone when I say, peace out 2024. What a year. For real—what a year. While I did take some big leaps, I also faced some heavy losses. By the end of it, I felt drained, disconnected from my purpose, and honestly, my passion for just about everything was at an all-time low.

But here’s the thing: I’m not staying stuck there. God has things for me to do, and I know He’s got big things ahead. Motivation or no motivation, I’m choosing to take small steps forward because healing and rest are important—but so is moving forward.

Maybe you can relate. Maybe your 2024 was a hot mess. Maybe you’re unclear on your purpose. Maybe your “big plans” didn’t pan out, or, like me, you lost someone you loved and are still grappling with the reality of it because it’s still hard to believe. Maybe you’re at that point where you’re ready to move forward, but you’re overwhelmed with where to even start.

Welp, I’ve got good new for you. You don’t have to feel motivated, and things don’t have to be perfect, to make progress. You also don’t have to crush 2025 from day 1—or even day 40. Small steps forward count, and they’ll get you back on track. So, let’s talk about how to move forward, into 2025.

1. Pray, Listen, Move

The first step is always prayer. Before you do anything, take it to God. He knows where you’ve been, what you’re carrying, and where you’re headed. Prayer isn’t just about talking—it’s also about listening.

Pause and ask God:

  • What’s next, Lord?

  • Where do You want me to go?

  • What’s the first step You need me to take?

Then, move. Even a small, simple action in obedience is progress.
Takeway: God’s power is enough, even when your motivation isn’t.

2. Step, Trust, Repeat

You don’t need to do it all at once. Small, steady steps can still lead to big results. It’s not about sprinting—it’s about staying consistent.

Instead of overwhelming yourself with huge goals, focus on manageable actions:

  • Spend 10 minutes on something meaningful.

  • Commit to posting once a week instead of every day.

  • Write a single paragraph instead of a whole chapter.

Each step builds momentum, and before you know it, you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come.

Takeaway: Steady steps done in trust are still progress.

3. Choose One Thing and Crush It

When you’re trying to move forward, the easiest way to get stuck is to focus on everything. Instead, pick just one thing you know needs to get done and crush it.

Maybe it’s finally folding that laundry, sending that email, or reaching out to someone you’ve been meaning to connect with. Whatever it is, tackle it, celebrate it, and let that momentum push you into the next task.

Ask yourself:

  • What’s the one thing I can do today that will move me forward?

  • Then do it.


Listen, you, I, we don’t have to have it all figured out to start moving forward. These first s3 mall steps—praying, steady progress, and focusing on one task—are enough to set you on the right path.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore even more ways to step into 2025 with purpose and confidence. Until then, take it one small step at a time—you’ve got this because God’s got you.

Much Love,

Natalie

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Small Steps forward after a rough 2024 (Part 2)

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God’s Gift, Your Choice—Choose Joy