“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way… ‘Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.’”

~ W.H. Murray

Years ago, I participated in a coaching program that left an indelible mark on me. Participants were asked to ponder their connection to a future aspiration. Mine was a vacation to Bali. “I’d love to go to Bali someday,” I thought. But what I learned from the program was that the word “someday” was getting in my way. “Someday” wasn’t going to happen on its own. A trip to Bali wasn’t really going to begin until I took action and booked a flight. This profound realization altered my decision-making process from then on. It was a catalyst that propelled me out of the “someday” trap and led me to make many decisions that had been lingering as unrealized dreams and endeavors.

In 2010, I completed a one-year Executive Leadership Coaching Program with Dr. John Townsend, which required traveling monthly from Dulles, VA, to Orange County, CA. Fully committing to the program was what made it meaningful. It allowed me to gain access to parts of myself that would not have been possible otherwise. Taking clear action and registering for the program forced me to figure out the necessary money, travel, work, and childcare, which never would have happened if I still had the “someday” mentality. At the time, I was a single mom with two kids whose father was overseas for work. I remember how hard it was to leave my kids the first time I traveled to California. It was a tough decision, but I knew it was necessary for my growth.

Think about the many “someday” dreams we give up. Someday I will travel to Hawaii. Someday I will get married. Someday I will have a kid. Someday I will start a business. Someday I will be debt free. Someday I will be a millionaire. The worst part of the “someday” myth is that it tricks you into believing that because you’ve declared it, it will be so. Unfortunately, this wishful thinking can undermine what you are truly capable of accomplishing.

I challenge you to commit to a significant goal today, such as being debt free and on a clear path to financial independence. Move towards your goal by surrounding yourself with those who have already achieved financial freedom. Learn from their habits and financial decision-making. Whatever your goal or dream, approach it with a sense of urgency and commitment. My hope for you is that one day, not someday, you will read Murray’s quote and experientially know the genius, power, and magic within it.

Dare to dream again!