3-2-1 Weekly: Start Where You Are, With What You Have, Do What You Can

Have you ever found yourself waiting for the perfect moment or the right resources to get started? 

It’s easy to think we need more before we can take action. But life doesn’t wait for everything to fall into place, especially when balancing leadership demands with personal well-being. 

Too often, leaders wait for the perfect conditions to make time for themselves, only to find that that day never comes.

As George Washington Carver once said: “Start where you are, with what you have, make something of it, and never be satisfied.” 

This week, I’m sharing how this simple but profound idea has shaped my life and how you can use it to grow in your relationships, career, and leadership while creating a more balanced life.

🚀 3 Lessons From My Journey

♻️ I. Innovativeness: Leadership with Limited Resources

When I was elected to lead the Nigeria Community in Tasmania Inc. in 2017, I wasn’t sure if I had what it took. The organization had limited resources, and the challenges outweighed the solutions. But instead of waiting for more support or the “perfect” plan, I tapped into what I already had—my leadership experience, passion for the community, and determination to unite people.

We started small, working with what was available. Over time, the community grew stronger and more connected. That experience taught me that resourcefulness often leads to innovation. 

When we make the most of what’s in front of us, we can create something more significant than we imagined.

Takeaway: Sometimes, constraints spark the most creativity. Leaders often face the temptation to do more by working longer hours, but sometimes, the key to progress isn’t working harder but smarter. 

You can find solutions that don’t drain your energy and time by tapping your existing resources. 

How can you use what you have today to create something valuable without burning out?

♻️ II. Overcoming Procrastination: Starting Where You Are

Procrastination can creep in under the guise of perfectionism. I’ve certainly experienced it: “I’ll start once I have it all figured out,” I’d often say. But waiting for the perfect moment often means waiting forever. 

As leaders, this can manifest in delaying taking breaks, investing in self-care, or delegating tasks because the conditions never seem ideal.

One story that sticks with me is when my son Halifax was learning to ride his bike. He didn’t wait for the best bike or perfect balance. 

He just started. He wobbled, fell, and got back up—learning with each try. Watching him reminded me that the best way to grow is by doing, not waiting.

Takeaway: Progress doesn’t come from waiting for the right moment and waiting too long can lead to burnout.

Procrastination, driven by perfectionism or overload, often leads to exhaustion. 

What have you been putting off because you don’t feel ready? Taking the first small step today—whether delegating a task, taking a short break, or prioritizing rest—is the beginning of real momentum.

♻️ III. Doing What You Can: Small Acts Lead to Big Change

I used to feel like I wasn’t doing enough for my family because of work demands. I couldn’t change my workload overnight, but I realized I could make minor adjustments—like unplugging from my phone during dinner or being fully present when spending time with my kids.

What surprised me was how those small actions made such a big difference at home and in my leadership role. I’m reminded that “It’s not about how much time you spend; it’s about how you show up when you’re with the people that matter in your life,” whether at home or in the office. 

That saying has stuck with me. 

Work-life balance is created through small, intentional actions. In relationships, work, or community, doing what you can—right now—can have a ripple effect beyond what you might imagine.

Takeaway: Big change often starts with small, consistent actions. Leadership is not just about showing up for others but also showing up for yourself. 

What small step can you take today that will lead to bigger transformations over time?

🚀 2 Quotes to Reflect On

“Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” — Vincent Van Gogh.

“Learn to say ‘no’ to the good so you can say ‘yes’ to the best.” — John C. Maxwell.

🚀 1 Question for You

What’s one small action you can take today that will move you closer to a goal, relationship, or challenge you’ve been thinking about?

Share Your Thoughts:

I’d love to hear how you’re nurturing yourself and others.

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Looking Ahead:

Next week, we’ll explore other fascinating topics. Don’t miss it!

Thank you for being part of my journey, and I hope to continue to be part of yours as we move forward together. 

Best regards,

David Onu

Your Results, Relationship & Life Coach

P.S. Contact me for coaching if you want to delve deeper into any of the topics covered in this newsletter or to achieve outstanding results in your life.