It's one thing to want, another to be able, and a third to make it happen.

We all have dreams. Some are big, audacious goals that would change the world, while others are smaller, more personal desires. Maybe you want to write a novel, start a business, learn a new language, or finally get in shape. The initial spark of desire is often the easiest part. We can conjure up images of success and bask in the glow of possibility. We want it, and that's a wonderful first step! But wanting something is only the very beginning. It's like planting a seed—you've got the potential for growth, but a whole lot more work needs to be done. At this stage, we begin to distinguish between the state of wanting and the state of being able. Being able involves more than just possessing innate talent or having access to resources. It's about possessing the specific skills, knowledge, and tools necessary to even begin pursuing your goal. Think of that aspiring novelist. They might dream of writing a bestseller, but do they actually know the basics of plot structure, character development, and engaging dialogue? Do they have time to dedicate to writing and editing? Similarly, someone who dreams of starting a business might have a brilliant idea, but do they understand the intricacies of marketing, finance, and legal compliance? Do they have access to the necessary capital? The realization that we're not quite "able" to achieve our desires just yet can be disheartening. It can feel like a giant obstacle, leading to procrastination, discouragement, and ultimately, giving up. But this is precisely where the magic of learning and growth comes in. Recognizing your limitations is not a sign of weakness; it's an opportunity to identify the skills you need to cultivate and the resources you need to acquire. Bridging the gap is the focus of this stage. Take online courses, read books, seek mentorship, practice, and experiment. Break down your big goal into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on acquiring the necessary skills and building a solid foundation. Achieving your goals is often a journey of continuous learning and self-improvement. So, you've put in the work. You've dedicated yourself to learning and developing the skills needed to pursue your dream. You're now "able." Congratulations! But even with all the talent in the world, nothing happens without action. Putting it into action is the crucial step. This area is the realm of discipline, perseverance, and consistent effort. It's about overcoming the internal resistance that whispers doubts and temptations. It's about pushing through the inevitable challenges and setbacks that will arise. Please consider that novelist once more. They now understand how to craft a compelling story and have set aside dedicated time slots for writing, but are they consistently sitting down to write? Are they willing to face rejection from publishers and keep revising their manuscript? "Making it happen" is about committing to the process, even when motivation wanes. It's about creating a routine, setting realistic deadlines, and holding yourself accountable. It's about celebrating small victories along the way and learning from your mistakes. Ultimately, these three elements—wanting, being able, and making it happen—are interconnected and interdependent. You can't truly succeed without all three. Wanting provides the initial fuel, being able provides the necessary tools, and making it happen provides the sustained momentum to reach your destination. So, the next time you find yourself dreaming of something you want, take a moment to reflect on where you stand in this process. Are you merely appreciating the concept, or are you actively taking steps to become "capable"? And most importantly, are you putting in the consistent effort to "make it happen"? Keep in mind, the journey from desire to achievement is a journey, not a sprint. It requires patience, resilience, and an unwavering belief in your ability to learn, grow, and eventually turn your dreams into reality. Go out there and make it happen! I hope what you want will benefit you and those around you.