Not goals…dreams. These are the big things that I’ve wanted to do but didn’t think I could or should. Of the dreams achieved or will be achieved soon this year, here are some highlights: I started the Embrace Possibility blog. I wrote my first book. And … I’m leaving next month for a trip around the world that includes an expedition cruise to Antarctica. If you asked me a few years ago whether I would have fulfilled just one of these dreams, I would have responded: Well, I didn’t win the lottery (it’s partially my fault since I don’t play very much). So what does all this have to do with you? Well, if you’ve read this far, I can bet it’s not because you’re interested in me. So let me give you what you came for: If you want to achieve your dreams, here is what you should do…
Choose a dream
The first thing you need is a dream. It sounds obvious but many people struggle with this. It is tempting to pick the perfect dream and this need for perfection can paralyze you. What you want to remember is that this is not a one time deal. You’ll have many dreams and there is no reason why you can’t fulfill most if not all of them. My advice to you is to just choose one and make that decision now.
Commit to your dream
Now that you’ve chosen your dream, it’s time for you to commit. The only way to commit is by taking action towards your dream every day. So what action do you take? I don’t know but there is someone out there who does. Whatever dream you may have, chances are there is someone out there who has already done it. Your next step after choosing a dream is to find those people who have already done what you want to do and ask them how they do it. The Internet has made this much easier and if you are not a people person, there is a book or internet article out there covering exactly what you want to do (I’m serious, do a search). Once you’ve learned how to make dreams come true, use that information to create your step-by-step plan. Start with your monthly milestones then your weekly deliverables and then finally breaking those down into your daily tasks.
Follow your dream
Now is the exciting part. Just begin working your plan. Everyday no matter what you do, make time to do the daily tasks that’ll bring your closer to your dream. That’s how I did it and it works. It’s not going to be easy so make sure you don’t make any of these mistakes.
Celebrate
When you achieve your dream, it is rewarding. Very rewarding. Take time to enjoy that moment and to appreciate yourself. This will give you more confidence to go for your next dream. Usually I find, dreams get bigger and bigger as you begin to achieve them. Life is much better when you wake up everyday and all you’re doing is going for your dreams. What are you waiting for? Featured photo credit: Young man sitting on a wooden floor and using a laptop with hot-air ballon via Shutterstock
