by Terry Loving

Created on: March 25, 2008

"By the yard it's hard, but inch by inch, anything is a cinch." This is a direct quote from Les Brown, better known as, "The Motivator." He further stated in his motivational video-same title, "You Got To Be Hungry." If you can't do it all at once, do just a little every day, and watch your efforts manifest into reality.

In the past I had written articles for our church bulletin, skits, and poems for college projects, etc. I have experienced standing ovations, and compliments such as, "You could write for the Cosby show." You would think that these highs were enough to propel me into my writing career with no problem. Not so. I always lived for the "right now." Meaning, if a job paid me enough money to meet my needs, I gave that all of my heart instead.

I spent many years chasing money instead of pursuing my real dream in life. Living the life of a writer is what I breathe now. The misfortunes in my life are forcing me to respond to the universe. But you don't have to experience dire straits to make up your mind to work towards your dreams. These are the steps that I try to live by now, and adopt as my disciplines:

One: Believe that dreams are from God. He gave us our gifts and talents to use for His Glory, and for the benefit of mankind. And of course, God has no objections to our benefiting as well in a positive manner. If He gave you the vision, He will provide the provisions to make it happen. Have faith!

Two: If anyone makes negative comments such as, "Can you make any money writing, crafting, painting, teaching, etc?" Turn them off, and separate yourself if necessary or possible. Negative criticism will stifle your efforts.

Three: Turn off the television. The actors that you are watching religiously are living their dreams, and making money, a lot of money. The "boob tube" is a dream killer, and an addictive aphrodisiac.

Four: Surround yourself with people who are accomplishing, and/or striving to do the things that you want to do. If you have negative mindsets around you all the time, you will be consumed by their gloomy out-look on life eventually.

Five: Touch your dream everyday! As a writer, if I only have one-hour to devote, my dream gets that one-hour. As a single person, this is easy. If I were married with small children, I would have to have a pow-wow with my family. But try to set aside specific times to work towards your dreams, and stick to it.

Six: Don't ever quit! Your turn to shine could be just around the corner. I personally don't know how to quit. When I think of the alternatives, I take a deep breath and keep moving. Most importantly, acknowledge your feelings. If you don't feel like touching your dream one day, don't. But don't let one day turn into weeks, months, and years. And don't judge yourself.

Hold onto your vision, and make it all that you think about. You still have to be responsible and pay the bills, but never lose sight of where you really want to go in life, and what you were born to do. If you are still searching, pray! Ask God to show you what gifts that He wants you to use. Be good you yourself in your striving. Beside, the world beats on us enough; give yourself a break. Your dreams will manifest themselves in due time.

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