For thousands of years ancient philosophers have attempted to distill the secrets of wisdom to the people. They taught that that anybody could be wildly successful at life regardless of their background or beliefs. The will to know, the will to be and the will to do. Just three steps. It sounds so simple in theory, but in practice–with all our modern distractions at hand–it becomes challenging to say the least. One thing remains elusive, whether we’re talking self-help reading, pep-talk from a trusted friend, or a “positive thinking” type social medical post. Many of them won’t tell you that nobody wants you to succeed more than yourself. You might have a genius idea paired with a brilliant plan, but it can all fall apart at the drop of a hat if your execution is lackluster. Anybody can come up with an idea, that’s the easy part. Putting that plan into action is one of the hallmarks of a truly motivated, successful person. All other points are nil in comparison. 

Many people are jealous by nature and would rather see someone fail than succeed. This is because subconsciously they feel inadequate and others accomplishments lead them down the rabbit hole of depression. Certain types of motivation work for certain types of people. Everyone is unique; therefore we need a customized itinerary to give ourselves the best chance to the outcome we desire. There’s so much information out there that we can be overwhelmed or thrown off track easily. If you were to sift through the infinite hubbub of motivational info, you would find that this three-step process is the cornerstone of motivation. It mirrors the ancient secrets of wisdom to accomplish anything. 

• Visualize

Now is the time to bust out that can of inner creator you keep buried within yourself. You could be trying to pass an exam, improve a relationship, or build a thriving business. Regardless of your aims, the most important thing is to trust your gut and don’t let anybody discourage you. Use whichever medium works best for you. Brainstorm on paper or use a Smartphone/computer if you’re more comfortable on screen. You might even create your own video or voice recording to speak your ideas into existence if that’s your jam. Use this exercise to hone in on your best ideas, and then list them in order of importance. 

• Plan Your Goals

After completing the visualization exercise you should now have a better understanding of which style of creation comes to you most naturally. Get comfy. Make sure you have some free time–then hunker down. Start writing, typing, or speaking your course of action, specifically state how and when you will accomplish your first goal. Be specific and list the most practical steps required to get this done in a timely manner. 

• Take Action

Honestly, this step separates the average from the legendary. Any hoodwink psychotherapist cannot deny that even a plan written out in 24 carat gold is absolutely useless without proper action. Now is the time to dig deep. Stay focused, press forward by any means necessary, and know that making excuses will lead directly back to ground zero. The old saying stands true, “Things are easier said than done.” To become a doer instead of a naysayer is the secret ingredient behind any successful person who wasn’t born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Be like Nike, Just Do It. Take action now and start completing your plan to accomplish the number one goal from your visualization list. Rinse and repeat for the other goals on your list. 

“There is only do or do not, there is no try.” –Master Yoda, episode V

Final Note:

The people we choose to associate with constantly influence us whether or not we realize it or not. It is paramount to surround ourselves with positive, like-minded people because the negative personalities do nothing but bring down those around them. It’s admirable to offer someone help, but they have to want and accept that help before we can give it. Our reality is created by the decisions we make and by the choices we ignore. Choose to be around people that lift you up, not tear you down. We all deserve the pursuit of happiness and to not worry about trying to act perfect for somebody when that’s not who we really are. Taking action is the key to level-up your life. Only you can make it happen. Dust off a project today or craft a brand-new one to rekindle your groove, why wait another day? Visualize. Plan. Act. You’ve got this.