Taking Small Steps Forward, One Day at a Time

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

Trying to navigate anything for the first time can be intimidating and overwhelming. Just as you’ve faced challenges before, taking small, intentional steps can help you navigate this season too. Even if this situation feels different, know that you are stronger than you might feel.

You don’t have to face an unexpected pregnancy alone. When the path ahead feels unclear, take a moment to breathe. It’s okay to feel uncertain or even scared. It’s also okay to take things one step at a time.

This blog offers encouragement and practical tools to help you move forward at your own pace. You don’t have to figure everything out all at once. The journey begins with just one step.

Step 1: Take Time to Pause

If your mind is racing and it feels like you’ve got to act fast, it can feel counterintuitive to pause. But, giving yourself permission to pause, breathe, and just be in the moment is one of the best things you can do. Taking a moment to slow down allows you to release the anxiety and tension and refocus on what’s most important.

One simple way to pause is to practice the STOP mindfulness technique: 

• S: Stop. Whatever you’re doing, pause for a moment. 
• T: Take a breath. Inhale hope, exhale stress.
• O: Observe. What are you experiencing right now?
• P: Proceed. Continue to move forward intentionally.

Slowing down doesn’t mean ignoring the situation. Taking time to STOP helps you reconnect with your surroundings, process your feelings, and find clarity. By pausing intentionally, you create space to move forward with purpose and confidence.

Step 2: Focus on What You Can Control 

When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to fixate on the unknowns and the what-if’s. It’s natural to feel paralyzed by everything you don’t know yet. But progress starts with the smallest steps, even if they feel uncertain. Shifting your focus to what’s within your control can help you regain a sense of stability.

Ask yourself, What’s one thing I can do today? It could be something as simple as grabbing a snack, jotting down your thoughts, or calling someone you trust. Whatever you choose to do, remember that progress doesn’t require giant leaps. Sometimes small, intentional steps can be the most effective ways to grow in strength and clarity.

If you need someone to talk to, Avail’s personal advocates are here to listen. Whether you prefer texting, meeting over Zoom, or meeting in person at our NYC office, we’re ready to support you in the way that feels right for you.

Step 3: Build a Support System

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Having support from a close friend, family member, or trusted organization like Avail can make all the difference. 

If reaching out feels overwhelming, that’s okay. Even jotting down a list of supportive people or resources can remind you that you’re not alone in this. This “support contact list” might include:

• A friend you can vent your emotion to
• A family member who always listens without judgment
• An organization like Avail, where trained advocates can help you explore your options and provide emotional support

When you’re ready, reach out. Text or call Avail NYC to speak with a trained advocate who can listen and help you explore next steps.

Step 4: Break Down the Big Decision

A big decision can feel daunting, but breaking it into smaller steps can help you feel more confident in control. It’s okay if your decision feels too big to tackle all at once. No one solves everything in a single moment.

Start by simply writing down the decision you’re facing. Then, make a list of what you already know. Next, write down your questions and identify what you still need to learn. If you’re not sure, try doing some searching online or reaching out to a support person to talk it through. Finally, take one small action to gather some information. 

You don’t have to make every decision at once. Just give yourself permission to work on taking the best next step, and trust that clarity will come as you move forward.

Step 5: Celebrate Every Victory

Progress often comes in small, consistent steps, and every one of them matters. Whether it is making a phone call, writing down your thoughts, or simply getting through a tough day, these moments of progress are worth celebrating.

Consider keeping a “Small Wins Journal.” At the end of each day, jot down one thing you did that moved you forward. It could be a meaningful conversation, completing a task you’ve been putting off, or even taking a well-deserved moment to rest. Over time, seeing your victories in writing can remind you of your resilience and just how far you have come.

Celebrating your progress is not only about recognizing your actions—it is also about honoring your courage and strength as you navigate this season of life.

Support is Available

As you take small steps forward, remember that you don’t have to figure this out on your own. At Avail NYC, our trained advocates are ready to listen and help you explore your options. 

Whether you want to explore your options or want someone to talk to about how to break the news about the pregnancy to your partner, mom, sister, or friend, our trained advocates are here to walk with you.

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.

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