"...The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all."
– Ecclesiastes 9:11
Now that you’re dreaming again, your excitement, passion and drive is nearly at its peak. Since we understand that time and chance happens to us all and that nothing is simply given to us, its important to prepare for and cultivate our skills to achieve our dreams. Here are some actions to focus this energy into transforming your dream into something you achieve:
- Be competent in your expertise. Go after the requirements needed. If achieving your dream requires a specific skill set, license and accreditation etc. focus on pursuing these things immediately. Sign up for classes, trainings or join professional networks for learning opportunities. It takes study, practice, experience and a strong work ethic to become a respected expert in any field.
- Establish and maintain good relationships. People may recognize your abilities, skills and talent, but to be highly regarded and endorsed by others it's important to show personal qualities such as trust and integrity in addition to professional skills. Show that you're trustworthy in business and in seemingly small interactions. Be honest yet wise. Listen and retain information to show interest and knowledge. Compliment others when possible. A leader among peers is one that people can look to during uncertain times, be consistent.
- Focus specifically on what you're going to do on a quarterly basis and DO it. We're one month into the first quarter. What can you do between now and March to make your long-term goal –your dream– a reality? When we're focused, we know where to invest our time and resources. Ideas: research relevant information and use it, make calls and connections, take classes.
- First Quarter: January-March
- Second Quarter: April-June (June 30th last day of Fiscal year)
- Third Quarter: July-September (July 1st begins new Fiscal year)
- Fourth Quarter: October-December
IDEAS: Some parts of the year may present challenges due to weather, holidays, family obligations, etc. The good news is that each day of the year is great for taking small steps to move forward. Here are some ideas to get started.
- During holidays, send holiday wishes to business contacts offering to connect over coffee.
- When back-to-school season comes, stock up on office supplies while they're on sale.
- Join a local professional group or business chamber.
- Have a soft launch or meet-and-greet to tell others about your business.
- Begin writing your business plan by finding examples of businesses similar to yours.
- Apply for grants to fund your non-profit organization, start your business or attend school.
- Attend conferences and events to learn from others in business.
- Get official training, licenses and certifications.
Stay inspired about your dream!
Listen to messages on being a Dreamer via Podcast from E. Dewey Smith, Jr.
For additional prayer visit http://tabernacleofpraisemin.org/ or call 781-963-5300.
About the author
Sharon has a Masters in Marriage and Family
Therapy. She combines her experience as an art director, understanding
of healthy child development and therapeutic interventions to offer
interactive art and talk therapy to clients. Sharon is a wife and a mother
that is passionate about family life and early childhood development and
education. Sharon is known for her commitment to God, excellence and
family, comedic wit and ability to empathize with others. "Love you
to life!"
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