The Possibilities Are Endless

"Doctors and scientists said that breaking the four-minute mile was impossible, that one would die in the attempt. Thus, when I got up from the track after collapsing at the finish line, I figured I was dead."
-Roger Bannister (After becoming the first person to break the four-minute mile, 1952)

There is something deep within the human spirit that does not like to be told "you can't do that!" We were created to be winners, champion, overcomers...a race of people who is both willing and capable of breaking just about every record and overcoming every obstacle that is put before us.

Today I want to encourage you to dream big, but don't let it end there...ACT BIG TOO! Whatever is in your heart, your mind...deep down in the core of who you are...go for it! Sure, there will always be detractors and naysayers. Blah, blah, blah! While those people are talkin', you do the walkin'!

Here are a few steps to take in order to accomplish the BIG STUFF in life:

1. Define the dream. Take some time and write it down. Some people draw it out, color it, and then post it on the fridge. Whether you like to write or doodle...get what is inside out and then put it somewhere where it will be in front of you each day.

2. Break it down into achievable steps. Ok, you've got the big picture. Now, you need to know how to make it happen and the best way is one step at a time. What steps - actions - are necessary to bring this thing to life? Write them down too (or draw them)...

3. Follow some footsteps. One of the quickest ways to get from point A to point B on your way to making your dream happen is to find someone who has already done it, or accomplished something similar. Follow that person, write them, interview them, call them, read their books (just don't stalk them) and learn all you can from that person. If no one has ever done what you are setting out to do, the blaze some trails, baby! Get out there and cut a new path.

4. Realize that some will, some won't, so what! One thing to prepare for is that not everyone will share your enthusiasm (they are not supposed to...it's not their dream) and along the way some people will support you, some won't, but regardless you have to say "So what!" and keep truckin'. Some will go part of the way with you, so understand that only you will be able to go all the way!

5. Stay thankful. As you are taking the steps to fulfill your dreams, maintain an attitude of thankfulness. Opportunities, successes, failures, friends, obstacles...no matter, be thankful that you get to do this, no matter what it brings your way. I promise, having an attitude of gratitude will take you very far along your journey.

If you take a moment and look back through history, the individuals who have accomplished the things everyone else admires and looks up to, have endured tremendous trial and a host of people who told them it couldn't be done. They set their mind to their task and kept right on walking. In the process they have also experienced some of the highest highs and most significant joys a person can experience. The Good will always outweigh the difficult if it a dream worth pursuing.

So, I say to you be encouraged and do what you gotta' do! Think big, Dream Big...but DO the things that are BIG enough to match those dreams too. In the end, whether you are breaking a four-minute mile, learning a new form, competing in a big tournament, training for your black belt (and we all better be doing that), remember the possibilities are endless...you just have to pick which ones you are going to go for, then make it happen!

So, who's up for a four-minute mile?

Have An Extraordinary Day!
Doug McGannon
Kickgen.com Username: KGDoug
http://www.questfortheusopen.blogspot.com
http://www.twitter.com/dougmcgannon