Baby Goals Before Big

A framework for achieving success through smaller, incremental goals rather than focusing solely on large aspirational targets. Based on Kevin Hart's approach to success.

Core Philosophy

• Big goals can feel too distant and disconnected from current reality
• Small achievable goals create momentum and learning opportunities
• Focus on immediate next steps rather than end destination
• Baby goals are more actionable and less overwhelming

Key Benefits of Baby Goals

• More useful than big hairy audacious goals (BHAG) in most cases
• Creates tangible progress you can build upon
• Helps avoid "playing business" vs doing real business
• Forces focus on what matters now vs future planning
• Builds confidence through regular wins

Real World Example: The $1,000 Weekend Challenge

• Set clear, achievable target ($1,000 in 48 hours)
• Forced quick decision making and action
• Required focusing only on essential tasks
• Led to more learning than months of planning
• Created real business experience vs theoretical planning

Implementation Tips

• Start with revenue-focused goals vs planning
• Get to market quickly to test ideas
• Focus on momentum over perfection
• Build confidence through small wins
• Use baby goals to learn real business mechanics

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-planning without action
• Creating extensive business plans too early
• Focusing on non-essential tasks (logos, business cards)
• Getting stuck in "playing startup" vs doing business
• Waiting for perfect conditions to start

The framework emphasizes that while having big dreams is important, breaking them down into smaller achievable goals is often more effective for actually making progress and learning along the way.