[foo
t-step] 
| 1. | the setting down of a foot, or the sound so produced; footfall; tread. |
| 2. | the distance covered by a step in walking; pace. |
| 3. | a footprint. |
| 4. | a step by which to ascend or descend. |
| 5. | follow in someone's footsteps, to succeed or imitate another person. |
follow in someone's footsteps
Also, follow in someone's tracks. Follow someone's example or guidance. For example, Dean hoped his son would follow in his footsteps and become an economist, or Jane tried to follow in her mentor's tracks. [Mid-1500s]