So many people have big dreams inside them. Whether you want to publish your own story, organize an advocacy group, excel in your career, or launch your own business, you might hold your dreams inside because you don’t see how it’s possible to achieve them. Years ago, I might have said the same about myself. I never expected to write and publish my Unwanted book, develop charitable organizations, or raise millions of dollars for charity. The love of my son Christopher inspired me to become the person I am today, and I’m confident that your passion and love can do the same for you. The decade beginning in 2020 is the perfect opportunity to spread your wings, dream big, love with abandon and discover all that your potential lies between what is and what could be, and that true happiness is about fulfilling your full potential.

Stay Positive

It may seem like a cliché, but it’s true: Staying positive is one of the most important ways that you can achieve your goals. Achieving your dreams may take a great deal of work, but if you feel like it is impossible, it’s even harder to commit yourself to move forward. Picture a motivational speaker in your mind, but don’t dismiss what she has to say. Your positive self-perception is vital for you to take the steps you need for success.

List Your Goals

To accomplish your journey, you need to take the first steps. If you want to publish your work, like my Unwanted book, write down all of your goals, from completing the first chapter to outlining your work to finding a publisher. Once you see your goals written down on paper, you’ll be in a much better position to make a plan and set a timeline for achieving them. Its not easy but if you apply yourself, even on those uninspired down days, simply put one foot in front of the other and move forward. It does not matter how slow you go as long as you don’t stop.

Keep Going

Everyone encounters difficulties and even defeats along the road to victory. One of the most common traits of those who succeed is their ability to persist and keep going even when they face a setback. If you get a rejection letter or someone declines to invest in your business, that doesn’t mean you need to stop moving forward. You can remain confident in your view of yourself and your vision. Don’t be afraid to make adjustments and be flexible to improve, but stay the course for strong results.

Love Your Friends and Yourself

Surround yourself with people who are also positive and caring. People who try to drag you down or undermine your goals aren’t the kinds of friends you need when you’re moving for success. Give support in return as well; successful people encourage others to achieve their goals.

Be kind to your friends and, most of all, be kind to yourself. Give yourself a safe space to develop your ideas and achieve your vision.

You have the power to achieve your dreams inside yourself. Stay positive, examine your goals, stay persistent, and surround yourself with those you love: All of these things can help you to realize just how valuable and important you are. I believe in you!