ABSTRACT
This chapter involves taking action to move towards valued goals, or 'committed action' and is derived largely from acceptance and commitment therapy and from cognitive behavioural therapy. It revisits values, shape them up and break them down into manageable steps. A goal is an outcome, small or large, in the client's life, which is in line with the client's values. A good way to start is to use 'baby steps' by identifying one tiny step or goal, which will move us towards a value. This is especially helpful for perfectionistic clients, who may have unrealistic/ambitious goals, or for those with learned helplessness, as baby steps reframe the effort and outcome required. Choosing one life area from the bull's eye, we help the client identify goals and practical actions (baby steps) they can carry out immediately, using three stages. The Baby Steps Diary is where the client can record how this goes and note things that get in the way of taking baby steps.
