Learning Moments

How Gentle Moves Create Lasting Change

“Change can be quiet, gentle, and without drama.” – David Hiett

I used to believe change required bold leaps—radical decisions and dramatic shifts. I’ve made those—trading Swiss mountains for Dutch lowlands, leaving a steady job to go freelance. But these days, I move differently.

In small steps.

I call these my “15% doses”—like filling a jar with pebbles. One at a time, they seem insignificant. But suddenly, the jar is full.

Big goals can paralyze us. Writing a newsletter, a book, renovating a house—these can make us freeze before we begin. Leo Babauta asks the perfect question: “What’s the smallest thing you can focus on that’s within your control?”

15% Solutions are bite-sized steps you can take right now:

• Actions within your immediate sphere of influence
• Small enough to avoid overwhelm
• Powerful enough to create momentum

Why 15%? It’s a metaphorically powerful nudge—just enough to start moving, but not so much that it scares you, transforming “I can’t” into “I’m starting”.

Each tiny step creates a win. Each win guides and motivates.

My 15% examples:

• Overwhelmed writing? Start with “crappy pages” in my private journal
• Intimidated by a blank canvas? Sketch something quick daily
• Hesitant about a project? Reach out to one buddy for insight

The magic isn’t in grand gestures, but in consistent, tiny actions. No perfect plan needed—just start testing.

So, I take a step.
Then another.
Gently. Without pressure.
Focusing on what I can do.

Looking back, I’m amazed how far those small steps have taken me.

In which doses do you approach change? I’d love to hear—share your thoughts in the comments! ✍🏽

Want to dive deeper with 15% Solutions?

This method comes from Liberating Structures—transforming collaboration into energizing experiences. Grab our free Tiny Booklet 📙 15% Solutions, Liberating Structures for Personal Use with practical tips!

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The bit at the end

Exciting events on the horizon to support your exploration:

• Reach out for more ideas on how to use Liberating Structures personally. 
• Interested in an inspiration walk through Alkmaar? Join the first Street Wisdom Walk on April 30 at 14:00. Register here (for free).
• I invite you to join the upcoming Unhurried Conversation, sign up here for free.
• For Street Wisdom walks and more Learning Moments, subscribe to my newsletter below for timely updates to your inbox.
• A related story about gentle productivity: Taming the To-Do List Monster

Want to chat? I’m always open to creative conversations.
Creatively,
Nadia

P.S.The paintings featured on the blog are my own.