Episode
#53 - Start Small, Start Messy, Just Start with author Ruth O'Leary
- Published
- Apr 4, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 574
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Summary
What if the thing you’ve been thinking about doing for years… actually started with one small step? In this episode of Tidy Tidbits , I sit down with author Ruth O’Leary, whose novel introduced me to the idea of walking the Camino in northern Spain. At the time of recording, I was preparing to walk that very path with my dad and sister, proof that inspiration can turn into action. We talk about what it really looks like to start something new, especially when it feels overwhelming or out of reach. Ruth shares how she didn’t publish her first novel until her late 50s, and how life experience helped her push past imposter syndrome and finally go for it. We also unpack the power of small, consistent steps, including the Pomodoro Method, and why you don’t need hours of time or a perfect plan to make meaningful progress. This conversation is a reminder that: * You don’t need to have it all figured out * You don’t need the perfect timing * You just need to take the next step Whether your goal is writing a book, training for a race, building routines, or simply showing up better for your life, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to begin. Important Links: 👀 Follow Ruth O’Leary on IG: Ruth O'Leary 📚 The Weekend Break: Four Friends, Four Secrets, One Explosive Weekend 📚 A Week to Remember: Three strangers, the Camino, One Week to Change Everything 📚 The Last Week of Him: Thirty Years of Friendship, Three Women, One Devastating Truth — 📚 Order my book: Tidy Up Your Life 🗞️ Subscribe to The Tidy Times : tidydad.substack.com 📸 Follow along on IG: Tidy Dad This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tidydad.substack.com/subscribe