If You Could Do This One Thing, Would You

If You Could Do This One Thing, Would You? Life is about choice, and results come from those who choose wisely and take action

If you could change one thing in your life, would you? This is a big question I ask myself often, especially when I’m stuck making a tough decision or chasing a new goal. Sometimes doing that one thing—taking a leap or changing a daily habit—can open doors you never expected. Here’s a deeper look at how to think about this, what holds most of us back, and some practical tips for those moments when you’re considering a bold move.

The Power of a Single Choice

Most of the time, we think major changes require a bunch of steps. However, sometimes it’s really just one action that flips everything around. Signing up for a new course, applying for a dream job, or even deciding to wake up an hour earlier every day can have a bigger impact than you think. One choice can set off a chain reaction, changing your routine, your outlook, and sometimes your whole life.

Opportunity knocks once: Some chances don’t come around twice. Letting hesitation take over could mean missing out on something special.
Minor changes, major results: Things like switching phone habits, changing your diet, or starting a side hustle often feel like small moves, but over time, they add up to something bigger.
Less regret, more action: People often regret what they didn’t do, not what they did—even if it didn’t work out exactly as hoped.

That little push to take action matters more than most people realize. Even when things don’t turn out perfectly, you learn, adapt, and grow from the experience.

Common Fears That Hold Us Back

Thinking about doing something outside of your usual routine or comfort zone can feel stressful. Here are some of the most common reasons I see people (including myself) hesitate:

Fear of failure: Worrying about “what if it doesn’t work” is super common. The truth is, even failed tries teach valuable lessons.
Concern over judgment: Sometimes friends or family might not get your decision, but your adventure is yours alone.
Overthinking: Spending hours weighing pros and cons can actually keep you from starting at all.

These doubts are hard to avoid, but being aware of them can help you see them for what they are. They’re just fears, not reality. I’ve found that almost always, the real risk is staying still instead of giving yourself a chance.

Simple Steps to Take That One Leap

Getting past hesitation doesn’t require a huge push. All it takes is a clear process and a bit of courage. Here’s what works for me:

Break it into small steps: If the big jump feels too much, break your goal down. Even one tiny action can make a difference.
Find a support system: Sharing your idea with someone you trust or a like-minded community (like those at Wealthy Affiliate) gives you a little reassurance when you need it.
Set a short deadline: Give yourself a week (or even a day) to decide and act. It keeps you from falling into the overthinking trap.

These little tricks help me move forward, even when it’s nerve-wracking. Each small action adds up. Sometimes the hard part is simply getting started. And if you’re unsure, take a guess at what might happen and remind yourself that learning is always valuable, regardless of the result.

How to Stay Accountable and Inspired

Getting started is one thing, but sticking with your decision can be just as tough. Here’s how I keep myself on track:

Write down your reasons: Having your “why” in plain sight can remind you why you chose to take that step.
Celebrate wins (even small ones): Every bit of progress counts, so reward yourself for following through.
Join a supportive community: Places like Wealthy Affiliate have forums and resources for almost any goal, and the shared motivation helps keep your drive alive.

Accountability keeps your momentum going and makes you less likely to drop your new habit or goal after the first hurdle. Sometimes, all it takes is a daily reminder that you made this choice for a good reason. If you find you need an extra push, ask someone close to you to check in on your progress. Not only does it make you feel connected, it makes the whole process much more rewarding.

Your Turn: What Would You Do?

If you could do one thing, small or big, what would you choose? Would you move to a new city, start a side business, or just change up your morning routine? Every big adventure starts with a single choice, and sometimes that one thing opens up a whole new path. Feel free to share your thoughts below, or check out communities that support fresh starts and bold moves. You never know, the step you’re considering could end up being the one that changes everything.