Big change rarely starts big. It starts with a single, often overlooked moment – one flash of insight, one shift in energy, one small decision.
These are micro-moments – tiny windows of clarity or courage that, when acted on, create momentum faster than any motivational plan or big breakthrough.
And I’ve built a business, and a life, on paying attention to them for the last 30 years.
What Are Micro-Moments?
Micro-moments are bursts of insight, clarity, or possibility that spark action. They’re easy to ignore because they often feel small. But when you act on them, they compound. Building up to Moments. Moments are actionable insights connecting seemingly unrelated thoughts or ideas that create positive momentum toward massive personal growth.
They’re one of the most powerful tools in my ReStart Now framework, and they’re also why my company is called Marjan Moments. These moments changed my life for the better, over and over again.
Here are two personal examples of micro-moments that changed my life:
🔥 The breakup moment in my 20s
I was stuck in a toxic, codependent relationship. The micro-moment that snapped me out of it? A voice in my head asking:
“Do I want to go down with this loser? I’m better than this.”
That moment gave me the clarity and courage to walk away and start fresh.
⚡The leadership moment at work
I had been a successful individual contributor for years, but resisted stepping into management. The micro-moment?
“Why am I still trying to do it all myself?”
That thought pushed me to build a team, delegate, and unlock new levels of growth in my career, my confidence, and leadership abilities.
Why Micro-Moments Work
Micro-moments work because they bypass the usual resistance that comes with big change.
They reduce decision fatigue
The moment chooses you. You don’t need to analyze it to death. Just act.
They bypass overthinking
By taking action before your brain shuts it down, you beat your own internal resistance.
They create quick wins that your brain wants to repeat
A small action gives you a hit of momentum. Your brain stores that as success, and starts to crave more.
How to Spot a Micro-Moment
Most people miss them. Here’s what to look for:
- A flicker of curiosity or energy
- A gut feeling that says, “I should do that…”
- A brief hesitation followed by rationalizing – that’s fear trying to protect you
- The sense that a small action is possible right now
Think of them as bubbles floating by. You can either grab one… or watch it pop and disappear.
What to Do With a Micro-Moment
1. Act within 60 seconds
If something sparks an idea, take a small step immediately. Send the message. Write the note. Say the thing. Lay out the workout clothes. Book the call.
2. Write it down
If you can’t act right away, record it. Don’t trust your memory. Honor the moment by capturing it.
3. Practice a mental flip
Let’s say you spot a micro-moment but don’t act.
Try this:
Why I shouldn’t act | Why I should act |
I’m not ready | No one ever is |
It might not work | What if it does? |
I’m too busy | One step is enough |
The “why I should” side is always there. You just have to see it.
Try this 60-second Micro-Moment Action Today
- Be on alert for one spark of “I should do that.”
- Pause. Acknowledge it.
- Act or write it down and commit to acting on it within 24 hours.
- Bonus: Tell someone you trust what action you took.
Even one micro-moment can shift the course of your day, your week, and eventually your life.
Missed Last Week?
If you haven’t yet read Why High Achievers Avoid Challenges, it’s the perfect complement to this post, because micro-moments are your best tool to move through avoidance and into action.