Have you ever felt like the life you want is just out of reach? Like something’s holding you back from breaking through to the next level? These barriers can feel overwhelming, whether it’s fear, doubt, or the weight of your past.
But what if I told you your next breakthrough is closer than you think? What if the only thing standing between you and the life you’re meant to live is one decision—one moment of courage?
In Season 1, Episode 10 of That Sh*t Doesn’t Define You, we unpacked the science and mindset behind breakthroughs and how you can create lasting change in your life by taking action. Today, we’re diving into the key insights from this episode and offering actionable steps you can take to experience your own breakthrough, starting today.
The Truth About Breakthroughs
We often think breakthroughs happen when we feel motivated, inspired, or ready. But the truth is that breakthroughs happen when you take action, not when you wait for the perfect moment. In fact, waiting for motivation can keep you stuck. Research from Dr. BJ Fogg at Stanford University’s Behavior Design Lab has shown that small actions trigger momentum and that momentum builds motivation. It’s the classic case of: “Just start”—you don’t need to be motivated first. Start small, and the motivation will follow.
What this means for you: If you’re waiting to feel motivated before making a change, you might be waiting forever. Action creates momentum—and momentum leads to breakthroughs.
Small Habits Lead to Big Change
Another critical factor in achieving breakthroughs is consistency. Big, transformative changes don’t always come from dramatic shifts—they come from small, consistent habits compounded over time.
In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear explains how improving just 1% daily can lead to exponential growth. The compound effect of small, intentional actions adds up over time. These small actions can lead to massive, life-changing results, whether it’s consistently showing up, taking one small step toward your goal, or practicing a new habit daily.
What this means for you: Start focusing on small, consistent habits that will build toward your breakthrough. You don’t need to change everything overnight—just make small, intentional progress every day.
The Foundation for Breakthroughs
A growth mindset is essential for breakthroughs. According to Dr. Carol Dweck, individuals with a growth mindset believe that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. This belief allows you to see challenges as growth opportunities rather than obstacles to avoid. People with a growth mindset are likelier to persevere, learn from their mistakes, and succeed.
What this means for you: Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, embrace them as stepping stones. Cultivate a mindset that sees challenges as opportunities to grow. The more resilient you are, the more likely you are to break through the barriers in your way.
Actionable Steps for Your Breakthrough
Now, let’s put these insights into practice. Here are the steps you can take today to start creating your own breakthrough:
Why It Works: Self-doubt thrives on unquestioned fears. You weaken its grip by confronting it with evidence of your past successes.
What to Do: Write down three moments when you achieved something you didn’t think you could. Next to each achievement, write the skills, effort, or mindset that helped you succeed.
Practical Tip: Keep this list visible—on your desk, on your phone, or in your journal. When doubt creeps in, revisit it as proof of your strength and capability.
Why It Works: Breakthroughs happen when you act, not wait. Taking even one small, courageous step creates momentum.
What to Do: Identify one action that scares you but excites you—something that’s aligned with your dreams. It could be:
Practical Tip: End your day by reflecting on how taking that action felt and what you learned from it. Celebrate the small win!
Why It Works: Challenges often feel like barriers, but when we reframe them as opportunities to grow, our entire perspective shifts.
What to Do: Think about a current challenge in your life and ask:
Practical Tip: Reframe challenges weekly by journaling about them. Write down one lesson you’re learning and one way it’s helping you grow.
Why It Works: Consistency in small habits creates massive results over time. Building a daily routine that aligns with your dreams ensures progress, even when motivation wanes.
What to Do: Identify one habit that supports your goal and commit to doing it daily. Examples:
Practical Tip: Use a habit tracker app or a simple checklist to stay accountable and celebrate your progress.
Take That First Step Toward Your Breakthrough
You don’t need to wait for motivation to strike—you can create your own breakthrough today by taking one small step forward. Action is the key. Whether you’re silencing self-doubt with evidence of your past successes, taking bold steps toward your goals, or building habits that support your dreams, every action matters.
Your breakthrough is closer than you think—and it starts now.
Want to dive deeper into this topic and hear more actionable steps to achieve your breakthroughs? Listen to That Sh*t Doesn’t Define You, where we discuss how to break through your barriers and start living the life you deserve.
Remember, nothing changes until you do. Start today—your breakthrough is waiting.