Some dreams seem totally unattainable, and the more we dwell on them and the challenges that stand in the way of achieving them, the less likely it seems that we will ever achieve them. But if we fail to give our fondest ambitions a shot, we may experience serious regret further down the line. After all, we only have one life and, as the saying goes, if you don’t try, you’ll never succeed. The biggest obstacles barring your way are always your own indecision, doubt and fear. Everything else can be managed, avoided, remedied or overcome. This article offers some significant steps you can take towards achieving your major life goals.
Make a Time-Sensitive Plan
Create a list of everything that needs to happen in order for you to end up where you want to be. Take note of all of the matters over which you can have some kind of influence. Next, think about timeframes. While being generous and avoiding too much pressure, think about the order in which you’d need to tackle these matters and how long it will take to deal with each before moving onto the next step. Now write everything down in the form of a clear schedule. Allow yourself a little flexibility for work and other responsibilities, but try to be disciplined and stick to deadlines where you can.
Get Qualified
Investing time and effort into a new qualification can be enough to persuade you to keep moving forward with your plans – otherwise it will have all been a waste. Apply for a private student loan – whether for an undergraduate or postgraduate course of your choosing – and enroll in the best college or university that will accept you. This will help you to grow your confidence, knowledge and network and may lead to big things.
Set the Ball Rolling
While rushing things may not be the best idea, working towards an immovable deadline can force you to be proactive. For example, if you want to get in shape, why not book a beach holiday in a few months’ time and set this as a goalpost to reach your ideal weight? A time-sensitive goal of this kind will make you give up on the excuses and simply find a way. If you don’t quite make it, you’ll have given your best shot.
Tell Others
Try to orchestrate a situation where it isn’t just yourself holding you to account. Tell your family members and loved ones what you plan to do and by when. Saying something like “I’ll have an official business plan ready to go by this time next year” – and asking people to keep reminding and pushing you will work well if you’re the sort of person who hates to let themself down publicly. You could also make new connections with relevant individuals, for example, professionals within the vocational field you wish to enter and tell them of your plans. Not only will they be able to offer great advice, but they’re also likely to vocally encourage your progress.