I have always been an impatient child. Yes there was no 2-Minute Maggie Noodles when I was a child, but my anxiety would be the same. Patience was never my play. I was certainly enthusiastic but my Aunt would label it as a rustic behavior. It was always my mother who knew me too well. She would always say – One step at a time.
I wanted to involve in every activity available at School. My laziness always led me away. I used to be like that butterfly that found the entire world as a huge garden. I became a jack of none. My trysts with public speaking would be a good example to this. It was Class VIII when myself, a thirteen year old brat wanted to take part in an Elocution Contest. I did not know how to go about it and just dumped my desires on my Mom. Choosing a topic, writing an appropriate speech and practice. I just read it a couple of times. At the contest, I almost made a fool of myself. I returned home disappointed. I did not win any prize. She put strong sense into me.
She said focus on exactly what is it that you want. I stared at her. This was not clear. I said I wanted to win. She asked me – who do you think should really win? The one who speaks the best, I said. She agreed. The best does not come at the start she prompted. We need to get there. Tiny steps will lead you there. Speaking, she said, was all about sharing your thoughts and vision. Your speech should be what you want to say and not anyone else. It should be said in a manner in which you find best. She explained how victory would come only after a lot of trial and preparation. One step at a time.
In the next couple of years, I started writing my own speeches. Now, looking back in time, I am so glad that she told me – ONE STEP AT A TIME! I am happy with the way I manage to speak. This was just one of the lessons that she taught me.
Life rarely rewards speed without direction.
It rewards consistency.
And that, I learned — one step at a time.