Vincent Van Gogh once remarked, “Great things are done not by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” There is perhaps no one who could have made a more profound and appropriate statement. Each of Van Gogh’s heralded masterpieces was born not of a single act or impression, but from hundreds of seemingly insignificant brush strokes. Hours, days and sometimes weeks would run together as blank canvass gradually evolved into eye-popping splendor.

Whatever challenge lies before your child right now, whatever dream they have yet to achieve, remind them that it will not be accomplished in a single climax of effort, exuberance or fortune. It will be achieved by a logical and deliberate application of forethought, technique, and commitment.

Take the time to identify the many small acts that will bring about their success. Help them blur their vision of that main goal, as hard as that often is, and focus intently on mastering the small independent constituents of success. Whether in art, sports, academics or business, the most successful amongst us are those who have become adept as this practice.

It can be very tempting to focus on the finish line, especially for kids. But in most cases, we can’t get there without focusing on the process instead. -Author’s Note

Are they starting a new sports season? Are they heading back to school? Are they saving for a toy or building a new relationship? Whatever their endeavor, help them pursue it with the dogged and deliberate premeditation that it deserves. You are never too young, too old, or too successful to apply this principal. Make today the day that they start on their new masterpiece; one brilliant brush stroke at a time.

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