I think you're right about taking baby steps. Taking small steps stops us from becoming overwhelmed and intimidate by the task at hand.
When I am not feeling optimistic, or things seem too hard, I follow one rule: make life just a tiny bit better. I don't have to solve the entire problem. I don't have to fix my it all today. I just have to try to improve the situation a little bit. Approaching life and goals in this way makes it that much more manageable.
Also, you mentioned not delaying. I also think this is very important. We always assume there will be more time, but one day our time might run out. That's why taking small consistent steps each and every day is vital.
Thanks for sharing your writing! Have a wonderful day!