I wrote the article below for a speech-pathology publication, but I think the message I am trying to communicate to the reader can really relate to anyone (regardless of profession).  I hope this inspires you to do awesome things in 2011.  You are destined for big things … DO IT!

Throw “Someday” Away and Start That Project Today!

Have you ever heard yourself say, “Someday I am going to (insert amazing goal here),” but before you know it, years go by and you have not even scratched the surface?  Do not worry; you are not alone because most of the population operates in this fashion.  The word “someday” is a heavy anchor that will keep your hopes and dreams held hostage at the dock.  But if you make a conscious effort to eliminate “someday” from your vocabulary, the results can be remarkable.  Cutting ties with “someday” is comparable to breaking free from that anchor and sailing into an ocean of unstoppable accomplishment.

Back in 2008 when I graduated with my Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Misericordia University, an acquaintance asked me a very valid question, “So what’s next for you?”  With a half smile, I genuinely said that I had been thinking about writing a children’s book with a positive message.  He looked at me surprised and then spoke about how ten years ago, he too always told himself that someday he was going to write a children’s book.  I asked, “Well, what are you waiting for?”  The response I got from him will forever haunt me … “I got realistic.”

Most people are convinced that they are incapable of achieving incredible things, so they aim for the mediocre just to play it safe.  Individuals tend to do this because they fear the unknown.  Getting started on a large “unrealistic” project can be overwhelming because you are probably wondering where to even begin.

Here is a great plan of attack: plan small.  Remember, Rome was not built in a day, and your projects may take time.  To make the project manageable, create a list of small steps with specific due dates.  For example, it is easier to get started with “Write 3 pages before next Tuesday” than “Finish the whole book sometime this year.”  Repeating this over and over again gives you the feeling of progress and before you know it, your “unrealistic” dream will become a beautiful finished product.

Another practice that should be exercised is to let people know about your project.  Tell your family, friends, co-workers, etc. about your creative idea.  Telling people makes it obvious that you are serious about your commitment, and they become your support system.  They will be the first to notice your progress (or lack of progress) and let you know it.

Whatever you are thinking about creating, embrace the fact that you have big ideas and understand that simply dreaming up your idea is half the battle.  I am proud to say that I completed my first children’s book and it even won a few awards, too!  I am currently working on my second children’s book, and I could not be happier.  Imagine if I decided to be “realistic” or “play it safe?”