babystep

Babystep, or baby-step, is a term used to describe taking very small incremental actions toward a goal. It is used across domains to emphasize gradual progress rather than leaps, and it appears in self-help, education, manufacturing, and computing contexts.

In manufacturing and high-precision equipment, babystepping refers to a temporary, small adjustment of an axis position during setup or operation. Operators trigger a babystep to nudge the tool or workpiece by a tiny amount to dial in alignment, clearances, or bed level. The offset is typically stored or applied to the current run while the machine is in a setup state, and then can be saved or reset as needed.

In personal development and psychology, babysteps describe breaking a larger objective into tiny, easily achievable actions. This approach reduces perceived effort, lowers resistance, and supports habit formation and sustained progress. It is a common recommendation in goal setting, behavior change programs, and educational curricula.

Etymology and usage: The term is a metaphor drawn from infant growth, underscoring gradual, manageable steps. While sometimes used informally, it also appears in manuals, firmware interfaces, and coaching literature as a precise instruction or strategy for incremental improvement.

See also: baby steps, incrementalism, habit formation.