I want to learn Spanish. No, actually, I don’t. I want to know Spanish!
Desire is a good start, but how great is that desire? Is there commitment? Is there passion? Is there drive? Is there a why?! What is your true intention? What’s your plan!?
These questions matter because they get to the heart of why I don’t yet speak Spanish after living in Miami over 10 years. I have not been honest with myself about my drive, motivation, and intention. I don’t want it bad enough!
Because here’s the truth of human behavior – you always get what you want MOST in that moment. And most days I want to be lazy, not struggle to conjugate a Spanish verb.
Beyond the intention we then need knowledge. How can I make the change or get the thing?
Also, what errors have I made in the past? How can I avoid those pitfalls, or setbacks, or time wasters going forward?
And then the application of this knowledge requires context and logistical planning in a real world. Not fantasy. Not pie in the sky. Not wishful thinking. The HOW matters in the question of manifesting your new reality. I believe that personalized, practical solutions are needed to see the results we desire. Just good vibes and best intentions aren’t enough, and simply knowing what to do isn’t enough. You need both!
What can you actually do? What will you do? When will you do it? How will you remember? What reminders or cues can you set? These facts and details matter.
So, this is my commentary on many people’s misreading of “The Secret” that came out several years back. (Also even a misinterpretation of how religion and prayer can work in some cases). Simply wanting and believing is not enough. Actual, boring, functional planning and effort and application are required. And this process is rarely fun or sexy. But it is through the persistent effort that we find success. Not wishful thinking.
Go beyond the vision board! Find success by marrying fantastical hopes and dreams and desires…with practical and functional applications.
So today, do something, anything toward your goals. Something is better than nothing. Take one step, any step. Will you be saying “One Day…” or is today going to be “DAY ONE”.
“Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential” – Winston Churchill
