As the new year unfolds, many individuals are setting resolutions, yet maintaining these commitments can prove challenging. Author and leadership expert Daron K. Roberts emphasizes the importance of focusing on micro-wins rather than overwhelming, large goals. In a recent discussion with journalist Sierra Waggoner, Roberts shared insights from his book, detailing how small, intentional victories can create lasting momentum.
Roberts, a fifth-generation East Texan born in Mount Pleasant, has cultivated his expertise through a diverse career that includes coaching in the National Football League (NFL). He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas and later attended Harvard Law School. In 2014, his family’s return to Austin prompted him to develop a system for achieving personal goals, leading to the creation of his micro-win framework.
Reflecting on the struggles many face with New Year’s resolutions, Roberts highlights January 9, often referred to as National Quitters Day, as a stark reminder of the challenges inherent in maintaining commitments. Research indicates that approximately 92 percent of resolutions are abandoned within weeks. “People often start strong on January 1, then burn out quickly,” Roberts noted. He advocates for a more sustainable approach: “Micro-wins say, if your big goal is to be healthier, start small. Do ten push-ups. Do five. Work out for ten minutes. Over time, those wins stack, momentum builds, and suddenly you look up at the end of the year and realize you actually reached your goal.”
Roberts underscores that the cumulative effect of these small victories can create a significant impact over time. “It seems inconsequential day to day,” he explained. “But then you look back and realize you’ve built real momentum — and that’s what keeps you going.” This perspective reshapes the concept of progress, transforming it into a daily habit rather than a daunting high-pressure outcome.
In his book, Roberts categorizes micro-wins into three primary areas: work, family, and health. For each category, he recommends setting a macro goal at the beginning of the year, which serves as the overarching aim. Subsequently, he encourages individuals to identify one small action per category to undertake each day. For example, he suggests playing a game of chess with his son for family engagement, writing a single page for work, and drinking one green smoothie for health.
Roberts emphasizes that while each of these actions may seem minor individually, the consistent application of small wins is what empowers individuals to achieve their broader goals. He champions the idea of moving away from perfectionism and instead advocates for the accumulation of small victories. “Stop chasing perfection and start stacking small wins!” he encourages.
As individuals embark on their new year journeys, Roberts’ insights offer a practical approach to goal-setting that prioritizes gradual progress over overwhelming expectations. By focusing on attainable actions, people can foster a sense of achievement, ultimately leading to more significant accomplishments throughout the year.
