5 Simple Steps for Getting What You Want

In order to get what you want, you must first decide what you want.

Most people really foul up at this crucial first step because they simply can’t see how it’s possible to get what they want, so they don’t even let themselves want it.

Don’t sabotage yourself that way! Don’t for a second think you have to figure out every step of the way when you’re standing at the starting gate to a certain goal. First lock in your desires and have faith that your mind and the universe will work in synch to guide you toward them.

For those who need structure for actually doing this, I’ve developed 5 simple steps.

Step 1: Decide to Think Big and Dream Big Dreams

Don’t let your inner devil’s advocate (or that incessant but unimportant To Do list) inhibit you from dreaming big. As soon as you commit to a big dream and really go after it, your subconscious creative mind will come up with big ideas to make it happen. You’ll start attracting the people, resources, and opportunities you need into your life to make your dream come true. Big dreams not only inspire you, but they also compel others to want to play big, too.

Step 2: Set Goals that Will Stretch You
Another value in giving yourself permission to go after the big dreams is that big dreams require you to grow in order to achieve them. In the long run, that is the greatest benefit you will receive from pursuing your dreams not so much the outer trappings of fulfilling the dream (an expensive car, impressive house, loads of money and philanthropic opportunities), but who you become in the process.

As I’ve seen many times over, the outer symbols of success can all be easily lost. Houses burn down, companies go bankrupt, relationships end, cars get old, bodies age and fame wanes, but who you are, what you have learned, and the new skills you have developed never go away. These are the true prizes of success, and you’ll be able to share them with others. Motivational philosopher, Jim Rohn advises that “You should set a goal big enough that in the process of achieving it, you become someone worth becoming.”

Step 3: Consider Your Service to Others
As you pinpoint what you want to go after, think about how you can be of service to others. When your dreams include this element, you’ll find yourself speeding along the path to accomplishing that goal. People want to be part of something that contributes and makes a difference.

Step 4: Define Your Goals and Objectives Based on Your Dreams
Once you are clear about what you want, you must turn each item into a measurable objective. By measurable, I mean measurable in space and time, how much and by when. Don’t just say that you want to lose weight, for instance. Be specific, push yourself to higher limits, and set dates. Say something like, “I want to lose 50 pounds by Thanksgiving and participate in my community’s 10K for charity by Christmas.”

Step 5: Make a Record
Write your goals down in detail and read your list of goals every day. Some goals may entail a list of shorter goals. Losing a lot of weight, for example, should include mini-goals, such as 10-pound milestones. This will keep your subconscious mind focused on what you want step by step. For an even more powerful approach, close your eyes and focus on each goal, even if it’s a little one, and ask yourself, “What is one thing I could do today to move toward the achievement of this goal?” Write down your answers and take those actions!