The Path to Getting it Done
The other day I had a unique conversation with a dear friend about what it takes to turn a great idea into reality. In trying to come up with a metaphor we ended up talking about Ironman training.
But let me go back and explain the connection.
How does one go from having a business idea to turning that idea into a business? How does one go from a simple marketing idea to turning that idea into an actual marketing campaign? Let’s admit it, lots of people have great ideas, but not all turn them into reality.
I am not one to claim that I have the perfected answer. The answer may be different depending on what drives each person. So knowing that my friend had completed an Ironman, I asked her, “How would you go about running an Iron Man again?”, "Would you run an ironman again?"
Her answer was very direct, “If it was 4 months from now I would be able to do it.” That was the training she knew she needed.
I was amazed that she didn’t say, “I won’t do it again,” or, “I don’t know,” or any other indefinite answer. She was able to tell me exactly how much time and the type of training it would take.
That is how you turn an idea into action — define the timeline and take the necessary steps to get there. My friend is an amazing woman who worked hard and knew where she needed help, so she enlisted coaches to train. If you need a coach to help you turn ideas into reality, hire a coach. Or ask for help from friends and family. In many instances turning ideas into reality may mean hiring employees, contractors, engaging helpers, friends and supporters. It may be hard, but it doesn’t mean the idea can’t be accomplished.
Regardless what it takes, nothing will get you there like an attitude of “getting it done.” It may may be cliche but it is true – take one step at a time. Do anything that moves you forward. Even if it does not seem (to you) like an extraordinarily original idea, do something to move forward.
Even imperfect steps are better than no steps at all because mistakes are great teachers. And good ideas turn into great ideas throughout this learning evolution.
So go out there and DO the things you dream of doing. Go out there and claim those possibilities. Let me throw another cliche out there and tell you, you can do it if you just… do it…
