When the Goal Feels Too Big
.:: By John B Grimes
Have you ever stared at a goal so big it felt impossible? I’ve been there. Whether it’s rebuilding after a setback, chasing a dream, or simply getting through the day, the enormity of the task can feel paralyzing. But here’s what I’ve learned: you don’t tackle the whole mountain at once—you take it one step at a time.
I learned this lesson firsthand while helping a friend tackle her debt. She was overwhelmed, staring at what felt like an impossible number. Together, we discovered the concept of Baby Steps (thanks, Dave Ramsey!) and focused on starting small. She tackled her smallest debt first, and the relief she felt from crossing it off was incredible. That little victory gave her the confidence and momentum to move to the next one. As the snowball grew, so did her belief that she could actually make it to the finish line.
Watching her progress reminded me that the key to any big goal is just that: progress. It’s not about doing it all at once—it’s about committing to one small step at a time and letting success build on itself.
When the goal feels too big, focus on the step right in front of you. Each small action builds momentum, and momentum is what gets you closer to where you want to be.
What’s one small step you can take today toward a bigger goal?
Author, Speaker & Meningitis Survivor
John B. Grimes is an author, speaker, meningitis survivor, advocate, and nonprofit leader whose work centers on resilience, disability, purpose, and what happens after life refuses to follow the plan.
At nineteen, John survived bacterial meningitis after eight days in a coma. He woke to profound vision loss, neurological complications, and a future that looked nothing like the one he had imagined. Rebuilding his life required learning to navigate disability, independence, work, relationships, and identity in entirely new ways.
Those experiences became the foundation for his memoir, Destiny Is Debatable, and the Destiny Is Debatable Podcast, which he hosts and produces. John is also Executive Director & Co-Founder of Shots 4 Meningitis, where he works to increase meningitis awareness and prevention while bringing the survivor perspective into the conversation.
Across his writing, speaking, podcasting, and advocacy, John explores resilience without platitudes, adaptation without pretending loss doesn't matter, and the choices that shape a meaningful life after circumstances change it. His guiding belief is simple: survival isn't the end of the journey—it’s just the beginning.
It's Time
