Why Every Great Journey Begins Before You're Ready

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Laozi, Tao Te Ching (6th Century BCE)

In a world that idolizes big wins, rapid growth, and overnight success, we often find ourselves paralyzed before we even begin. The distance between where we are and where we want to be can feel insurmountable. We imagine the finished product—the book published, the business thriving, the body transformed—but that very vision overwhelms us. Laozi, the ancient Chinese philosopher and father of Taoism, offers a profound counterpoint: every monumental journey starts not with a grand leap, but with a single, intentional step.

This ancient wisdom isn't just motivational fluff. It's a deep philosophical truth about the nature of progress, patience, and humility. When we understand the power of the first step, we liberate ourselves from the illusion of perfection and the fear of not knowing enough.

Why We Hesitate

Many people never begin their journeys—not because they lack talent or desire, but because they believe they must be fully ready before they act. The need for perfection becomes a form of procrastination.

“Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts. You need to start somewhere.” Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird

This insight resonates with the aspiring writer who endlessly outlines but never writes, convinced their words won’t be good enough. Years pass. The book remains unwritten—not for lack of creativity, but because fear silenced momentum.

In Taoist philosophy, the emphasis is not on conquering life but on flowing with it. Laozi reminds us we don’t need the full map—we just need to begin. Zhuangzi, another Taoist sage, echoed this when he wrote:

“A journey may be compared to moving a mountain: it begins with carrying away small stones.” Zhuangzi, Chapter 18

Starting small is not weakness—it is the natural way. Great tasks are always composed of tiny beginnings.

Action Creates Momentum

The first step is often the hardest, but once it's taken, momentum builds. This is not just a motivational principle—it’s a neurological and psychological truth. Our brains thrive on progress, however minor. One action leads to another. The wheel turns.

“Accomplish the great task by a series of small acts.” Tao Te Ching, Chapter 63

Imagine someone trying to begin a fitness journey. The idea of going to the gym five times a week feels impossible. But what if they began by walking around the block? The next day, they walk a little farther. Within weeks, they’re jogging. The first step created a new identity—not all at once, but through momentum.

James Clear reinforces this in Atomic Habits:

“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” James Clear

Starting creates the system. Systems shape success.

Perfection is the Enemy of Progress

Many people delay starting because they feel they must begin perfectly. But perfection is not only impossible—it’s an illusion. Progress does not come from getting everything right; it comes from doing it anyway, flaws and all.

“He who would learn to fly one day must first learn to stand and walk and run and climb and dance; one cannot fly into flying.” Nietzsche, Thus Spoke Zarathustra

The creative person who never publishes because their work isn’t "ready" will stay frozen. Meanwhile, the imperfect doer builds strength through action. A musician who performs before mastery gains more wisdom than the one who waits in silence.

“The beginning is the most important part of the work.” Plato

This truth is simple, yet revolutionary. We improve not by waiting for ideal conditions, but by beginning and refining through experience.

The Path Reveals Itself Through Movement

Many people hesitate to start because the full journey is unclear. We want guarantees. But clarity comes not from thinking, but from walking. Only by moving forward do we discover what's truly required of us.

“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” Søren Kierkegaard

A person launching a business will never have every variable figured out from the start. But through trial, error, and real-world lessons, they adapt and succeed. Taoism teaches a similar surrender to flow—trusting the Way (Tao) rather than forcing clarity.

“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do." Epictetus, Discourses

This Stoic principle aligns beautifully with Taoism: begin with intention, then act. The rest will unfold.

Trust the Process, Not Just the Outcome

In a goal-obsessed culture, we often reduce our value to achievements. But real growth occurs in the process, not the result. The transformation is not just external—it’s internal.

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." Arthur Ashe

The language learner who obsesses over fluency will feel discouraged. But the one who enjoys discovering new words each day will thrive. The journey itself becomes fulfilling.

Laozi teaches that nature flows in its own rhythm. When we rush, we resist. When we flow, we grow.

Let Go of Fear and Overthinking

Fear often masks itself as logic: “I need more time,” “I’m not ready yet,” “I’ll start when things calm down.” But fear’s real aim is paralysis.

“Resistance will tell you anything to keep you from doing your work… Resistance is insidious.” Steven Pressfield, The War of Art

Fear wants you to wait forever. But courage doesn’t mean you’re not afraid—it means you act despite it. Like the speaker who’s terrified of public speaking but starts anyway, confidence is built step by step.

“Do not be daunted by the enormity of the task. Just do what lies clearly at hand." Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

Begin not because you're fearless, but because you’re determined to move forward anyway.

How to Start Today

Here are three practical ways to live this wisdom:

1. Take One Small Step

Want to write a novel? Write one paragraph.

Want to meditate? Sit for two minutes.

Want to switch careers? Update your resume today.

2. Trust the Process

Don’t fixate on the end. Flow through the now.

Enjoy the early chaos—there’s wisdom in the mess.

3. Replace Fear with Motion

The only antidote to fear is movement.

Each step makes the next one easier.

Your Journey Starts Now

Laozi’s timeless reminder still whispers across the centuries: Begin. Not boldly, not perfectly—just genuinely. You don’t need the whole plan. You don’t need permission. You just need to start.

Because the moment you take that first step, you are no longer a dreamer—you’re a doer. You’re in motion. And from that motion comes transformation.

“Action is the foundational key to all success.” Pablo Picasso

Your Turn

What’s one "first step" you’re ready to take today? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear. 👇