Microshifts: The Small Changes That Change Everything

I love reading Brianna Wiest. In her book The Mountain Is You, she writes: “A mind-blowing, singular breakthrough is not what changes your life. A microshift is.”

A microshift is exactly what it sounds like: a small change you make today…then again tomorrow…then again the next day—until it becomes who you are.

That hit me, because I can’t count the number of times I’ve demanded a “breakthrough” of myself. I’d gear up for a huge change, give it a heroic start, and then feel disappointed when I couldn’t sustain it. So hearing this was a relief: it’s not about the dramatic leap. It’s about the small, steady return.

More than ten years ago, I started walking. That was my microshift. Then came the Fitbit. Then taking the stairs instead of the elevator whenever I could. These days, I hit 10,000 steps at least five days a week—not because I “finally found willpower,” but because I built a rhythm.

And honestly? It makes me breathe a sigh of relief. I don’t have to overhaul my life. I just have to start small, choose one thing, and repeat.

Try this ONE thing

Pick one microshift that takes two minutes or less (drink a glass of water, stretch, step outside, write one sentence, put your phone away, prep tomorrow’s lunch—anything). Do it today, then decide the when for tomorrow (e.g., “right after I brush my teeth”). That’s how the habit begins.

What’s your one small thing for today?

Let’s Connect!

If you’re ready to talk about creating a better, more joyful life—or if you simply want to share your thoughts—leave a comment below, repost this blog, or reach out to me directly. I’d love to hear your story, answer your questions, or help you take the next step toward the life you want. Sometimes, one conversation is all it takes to spark real change. Reach out to karen.laidlaw.theONEthing@outlook.com. Until then, enjoy the blog and keep moving forward!