A technique for writing and for life.

Post-impressionist painter Vincent Van Gogh said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” His distinctive technique consists of bold brushstrokes and contrasting colors to create a bigger picture of vibrant intensity and emotion.

Big is wonderful. Yet, big is often overwhelming. Small is less intimidating. Small is doable.

Taking small steps toward a bigger goal is a proven technique for success, whether you’re painting a masterpiece, training for better health, or writing a book.

“I can’t tell you how many times I don’t feel like training and tell myself, ‘I’ll just do one set and see how I feel.’ You would think it would stop working at some point, but I almost always end up doing the whole workout,” wrote James Clear, author of the best-seller Atomic Habits. “Just start. Do a little and see what happens.”

Clear’s trick works for writing, as well. When I don’t feel like writing, I tell myself, “I’ll write for 15 minutes, even it’s just random thoughts.” Inevitably, once my fingers get moving on the keyboard, my brain gets moving, too, and I end up writing for much longer.

You can do great things with a series of small things. The key is to “just start” and see where it takes you.  

Image: Vincent van Gogh’s “Irises,” oil on canvas (1890, courtesy of Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam (Vincent van Gogh Foundation)