Today I decided to focus on goals—my goals.

But let me ask you: do you have goals? I don't mean ideas that sound impressive when someone asks about your future. I mean real, written-down, actionable goals. Have you actually sat down and thought about what you really want in life?

Here's the truth: you can will yourself into just about anything you desire—but desire alone isn't enough. You need action. Goals are the destinations on your roadmap, but without directions, you'll never get there.

As a driver, I know this well. I can be dispatched to a destination, but if I don't plan my route, I'll get lost along the way. Knowing where to go isn't the same as knowing how to get there.

Here are three steps to building your own roadmap to success:

Just like planning a road trip, you need to map out your path toward your goals.

• What's the best route for you?
• What should you avoid?
• How much time, money, and energy will it take?

Planning ahead will keep you from wasting time and ensure you actually arrive.

Truck drivers stop along the way for fuel, food, and rest. You need checkpoints too.

• Regularly review your goals.
• Educate yourself in your field.
• Connect with people who are where you want to be.
• Read books, take classes, gather tools for the journey.

Checkpoints keep you sharp and fueled to continue.

Every driver keeps a log of where they've been and how long they've driven. Without it, they risk suspension. The same is true for your goals.

• Journal your progress.
• Record what worked, what didn't, and what you learned.
• Use your experience to help someone else on their journey.

Experience is a great teacher, but only if you capture it.

David once declared in the Psalms: "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you." (Psalm 119:11)

He knew that staying grounded in God's word would keep him on the right path. Do the same with your goals. Don't just write them on paper—write them on your heart. Make daily declarations that you will stay committed, no matter what.

Because commitment is this: Commitment is Staying True to What You Said You Would Do Long After the Mood that You Said It in Has Left.

Until next time,
Don