Marching Forward: Small Steps, Big Impact
Photo by Manikandan Annamalai on Unsplash
March is here, and its name alone feels like a little nudge—March forward! But let’s be real: moving forward, especially during difficult times, isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels like you’re stuck in place, unsure of your next step. Other days, it’s tempting to stay in the comfort of what’s familiar—even if it no longer serves you.
But here’s an important truth: you don’t have to move quickly; you just have to keep moving.
March: A Season of Change and Growth
March isn’t just another month—it’s a shift, a transition, a fresh start. The cold, dark days of winter begin to fade, making way for warmth, longer days, and new possibilities. Even if you don’t see it yet, change is happening.
Think about nature: The snow doesn’t disappear overnight. Flowers don’t bloom instantly. But beneath the surface, roots are stretching, buds are forming, and life is preparing to emerge. The same is true for you. Even if you feel stuck, growth is happening in ways you might not yet see.
And here’s the best part? You don’t have to do it all at once.
Why Small Steps Matter
We often believe that progress needs to be big and dramatic—quitting the job, making the perfect decision, and healing instantly. But real, lasting change happens one small step at a time. Healing, personal growth, and moving forward aren’t about making perfect choices; they’re about making consistent ones.
If you’re in a season of transition, consider this:
Drinking a glass of water before your coffee? That’s self-care.
Saying “no” to something that drains you? That’s a boundary.
Texting a friend instead of isolating? That’s connection.
Closing your eyes for a deep breath before reacting? That’s emotional regulation.
Making that therapy appointment you’ve been thinking about? That’s growth.
These small choices may seem insignificant, but they add up. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to keep moving, even if it’s just one tiny step forward.
How Therapy Can Help You Keep Moving
If stepping forward feels overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. Therapy can be a space where you get to unpack what’s holding you back, gain clarity, and create a plan to move forward—at your own pace.
Here’s how therapy can help:
Breaking things down: Overwhelm is real. A therapist can help you set realistic, bite-sized goals instead of feeling like you have to fix everything at once.
Helping you unlearn old patterns: Maybe you’re used to putting yourself last, overgiving, or carrying emotional weight that isn’t yours. Therapy can help you shift those patterns.
Providing accountability and encouragement: Growth isn’t linear, and having someone to remind you that progress doesn’t have to be perfect can make all the difference.
Giving you tools to navigate life’s challenges: Whether it’s managing anxiety, healing from past relationships, or building self-confidence, therapy offers real, practical tools.
Embracing Your Personal Spring
As the world shifts from winter to spring, this is your reminder that you, too, are allowed to bloom in your own time. Just like nature, you don’t have to rush your process. You are allowed to take your time, rest when needed, and grow at your own pace.
So, what does “marching forward” look like for you this month? Maybe it’s choosing yourself in small ways. Maybe it’s reaching out for support. Maybe it’s just giving yourself grace.
Whatever it is, keep going. One step at a time. We’re here to walk with you. 💛
About the Author
After spending years in a local community mental health setting and group practice in leadership positions, Tina D. Shah (PsyD, LP) decided to start Collaboration for Psychological Wellness, LLC to expand access and reduce barriers to services.