I have been in physical therapy for the last eight weeks recovering from rotator cuff surgery.
I am amazed and excited each time I go. We measure my progress and improvement literally by degrees in my range of motion.
Over time I have been excited to just drive- and then to drive with hands at the 10 and 2 position on the steering wheel rather than 5 and 7.
Progress is a gradual process. In addition to range of motion we are working on strength building. I did not have to go from a sling to lifting 20 pounds at once. I was excited when I could lift a two pound weight. And last weekend I was elated when I put my suitcase on the security conveyer belt at the airport!
Many of us want results quickly. We also will take on things only if we can do them full out or completely. So painting a room becomes getting new furniture then painting the hall then redecorating the house.
Projects become all or nothing. “Why start if we can’t do it all?,” we say. As a result, we sometimes procrastinate, avoid action or do not make needed changes. We are not satisfied with baby steps.
It can be rewarding to just get started and make progress one step at a time. Anyone who has watched a child learn to walk knows this.
You do not have to move 180 degrees to make changes. Starting one degree at a time will take you on a different course and move you forward. Your range of motion will increase as you acquire new skills and attributes.