Parents are excited when their baby takes their first steps.
For the child, it is a time for them to be more independent in their movements versus being carried around all the time.
In the workplace when goal setting is discussed, we talk about the importance of taking “baby steps” which is much more sustainable than going too fast.
I think, however, a better phrase would be “toddler steps”.
When toddlers move around, they are curious and that is why they get themselves in trouble at times.
They also are constantly asking “why?” or some other question so they can comprehend the world around them.
As we define our goals and then start to achieve them, we should behave like toddlers in that we should strive to ask many questions along the way.
What may have seemed like a good idea now could be irrelevant, too much of a strain on resources, and/or just plain stupid.
The reason why we continue on this course of action could be guilt or one’s pride but for many it is more about sunk cost.
Most people do not want to waste their money or time on something that does not give them a return on investment so they will continue on this fruitless path.
If instead you act like that inquisitive toddler, you may ask yourself this question – “what is the purpose of achieving this goal?” 
As you ponder that question, other questions may come to mind such as – “Am I trying to impress someone so I can get a raise, bonus, or promotion?”
“Am I stubborn so I don’t want to admit that it is too challenging or that I don’t possess the necessary skills?”
“Is someone putting pressure on me even though I don’t see the value in doing this?”
“In the end, what is the benefit of it all?”
For some, a helpful idea is to keep a journal so as not only to track your results but also to jot down your feelings and thoughts as you go along.
I feel that the issue with most fitness apps is that you can track your calories, exercise, sleep, and water intake but it does not ask how you feel at any given point.
Maybe you really had an amazing workout and yes you would post your results but what would be better is if you could write “nailed it” or other inspiring words.
This could help when you don’t necessarily want to go to the gym or eat healthy; seeing your own words can be more uplifting than anything someone else says to you.
Leaders should also consider this.
By asking “how are things going?” there is a greater likelihood of getting a vague answer like “good” or “fine”.
Instead, ask questions like “What areas are you finding challenging?”, “What has been the most useful to you?”, or “If you could take a step back, what would you have done differently?”
The difference between a leader and a toddler, however, is that effective leaders should listen to not only what is said but also what is not being said.
Toddlers, on the other hand, just want an answer and then move on to the next thing regardless of the consequences.