The Super Secret, #1 Tip for Greatness: Action

Graphic by the great Austin Kleon

That it.  Just one word, one idea.  No long list, no thirty-seven bullet points, just — this:

THE SECRET TO GREATNESS

1. Action.

I’ve been trying a lot of things this year, but in the end it has all led to this moment.  This typing, this game plan to living my dream, this day.

Taking action.

There will be setbacks.  You’re bound to take some wrong turns.  But as Jack Canfield says, as long as you’re moving froward and course correcting, you’ll reach your goal eventually.

Now planning is great, but after a while you need to cease just planning and make your move.  Find out what steps you can start doing TODAY to make the life of your dreams a reality.  I have been living as if I’m already there for the past two weeks and it has been paying off handsomely.  Remember also —

Set your sights high, the higher the better. Expect the most wonderful things to happen, not in the future but right now. Realize that nothing is too good. Allow absolutely nothing to hamper you or hold you up in any way.
— Eileen Caddy

For you, taking action might be —

• Buying that book that will help you write a list of goals (yes that’s planning but a list of goals should also give you actions and deadlines).
• Signing up for a class
• Cleaning out a room and taking things to Good Will
• Starting a blog
• Handing in your resignation letter

Yes, taking action can be scary.  I created a whole Pinterest board to inspire myself.  But acting as if you are already the person you dream of being will help you.  Learn to see yourself as you would (will!) be in five years, living exactly the life of your dreams (or something better!).

I find little things help build confidence as you take action.  Consider buying a couple of nicer pieces of clothes (another Jack Canfield recommendation).  Treat yourself to that extra drink in the coffee shop as you write (imagine you’re writing the sequel to a 500,000 unit bestseller).  Even if it’s not buying anything new, give yourself special trips and indulgences that you’d allow yourself when you’ve ‘made it’.

If you need inspiration (you should check out my Pinterest board — I’m so proud!) to get started — read motivational quotes, read an autobiography of someone who did what you dream of doing, talk to a positive friend, make a list — THEN COMMIT.

And always remember —