Tiny Little Wins — The First One

I first came across the phrase Tiny Little Wins in the most unexpected place.It was on Jodie Mattison’s computer background.At the time, it felt simple. Almost throwaway.Today, it feels like a compass.Jodie is no longer with us. And if you knew him, you know the loss still sits heavy.Jodie was the VP of Commercial Sales at Proofpoint, and he gave me a chance twice—when it would have been easier not to.He wasn’t your typical corporate sales leader.He wasn’t a sales “hack.”I believe at one point he was even a physical therapist.And that made sense.Because Jodie led the way a therapist does:With a steady handWith patienceWith an eye for long-term progress, not short-term noiseHe saw past petty culture.Past corporate wars and ego battles.Past titles and politics.Jodie wasn’t a great salesman.He was something better.He was a great man—calm, thoughtful, grounded—and he had a rare gift:👉 He could spot talent and believe in it before it fully believed in itself.That phrase on his screen—Tiny Little Wins—wasn’t about hustle.It was about showing up, making progress, and becoming a little better each day.In Spanish, we call this a "pie forzado"—a forced first step.The moment you commit, even before you feel ready.This post is my "pie forzado".I’m starting Tiny Little Wins as a way to honor that mindset, that leadership, and that example.And as a reminder of the man I want to become.Thank you, Jodie.For the chances.For the example.For the reminder that greatness is built quietly—one tiny little win at a time.