Dreams, Plans or Progress

We all have dreams—vivid visions of our future that fuel our passions and drives. Yet, turning these dreams into reality often feels like an impossible challenge. As someone who has faced the trials and triumphs of this journey, I can assure you that turning your dreams into tangible achievements is possible through passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a plan.

No dream worth having will come easy. Turning dreams into reality isn’t for the weak or faint of heart. There will be ups and downs in pursuing your dreams. If it were easy, everyone would accomplish their dreams. It requires relentless commitment and perseverance.

The first step in turning your dreams into reality is to clearly define what you want… and WHY you want it.  (Hint: the WHY is far more important than the WHAT!)  A dream without a vision is like a ship without a compass.

Take time to visualize your goal in detail. Write it down and be specific. What exactly do you want to achieve? Why is this important to you? How will it change your life and the lives of those around you?

My dream was to become an Airborne Ranger. The thought of overcoming rigorous challenges and joining the US Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment was my singular focus.  I wasn’t sure I had what it takes to make it through the selection process, but I was willing to give it everything I had to find out.

Once your dream is clear, break it down into smaller, manageable parts. Rome wasn’t built in a day.  Building the Eternal City took years of hard work, and the same is true with your dreams. Set short-term and long-term goals that lead you toward your ultimate dream.

In my case, the short-term goal was to meet the basic military criteria to be eligible to attend the selection process. There were many times along the way when I was exhausted and didn’t think I could go on, but I refused to quit. My long-term goal was to pass the rigorous Ranger Assessment and Selection Process.

Now that you have your goals, develop a step-by-step plan to achieve them. Consider what resources you will need—time, money, skills, and support from others. Outline your actions and assign deadlines to keep yourself on track. Remember, planning is crucial, but flexibility is equally important. Stuff will throw a wrench in your plans, so your plan should be adaptable to handle unforeseen challenges.

Dreams don’t come true overnight. The road can be long and often winding. You’re going to need commitment and resilience. Stay focused on your goals, but be prepared for setbacks. View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Keeping a positive mindset will help you stay motivated in difficult times. I remember being devastated when I was dropped from the selection course one day before completion. It felt like my dreams were slipping away. But giving up was never an option. I chose to go through the entire selection process all over again, determined to make my dream come to pass. This is the kind of resilience you’ll need when facing challenges.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. Whether it’s friends, family, or professional mentors, having a support system can provide encouragement and valuable advice. Mentors, in particular, can offer insights from their experiences and guide you more efficiently towards your goals.

Along the journey, it’s essential to acknowledge and celebrate your progress. Recognizing small successes boosts your confidence and keeps you motivated. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your dream.

Periodically, take a step back to reflect on your progress. Maybe you’re not moving as fast toward your dreams as expected, or your path has taken an expected turn.  Don’t let these surprises tank your plans completely.  Learn to adapt your plans to your circumstances.

Assess what strategies are working and what needs to be adjusted. Being willing to adapt your approach is critical to overcoming obstacles and staying on course. When you’re at the end of your rope, with nothing left to give, put your dreams in God’s hands and trust him with the results.

Finally, ensure that your actions are aligned with your core values and purpose. When your dreams resonate deeply with who you are, the journey itself becomes fulfilling. Living a purpose-driven life helps you achieve your dreams and brings a sense of satisfaction and contentment.

Becoming an Airborne Ranger was a dream I realized through perseverance, determination, and God’s help. Your dreams, too, can come true with the right attitude and approach. Keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles, and you will achieve greatness.