Top Ten Tips for Getting What You Desire

29 Mar Top Ten Tips for Getting What You Desire

The Power of Positive Thought: Be Persistent

Recently, I listened to one of my old favorite songs, “Overjoyed,” by Stevie Wonder. I realized I liked this song because it is a great example that illustrates the power of positive thinking and determination in getting what one desires.

One of verses that illustrates both Stevie’s difficulty, but also his resolve to get what he desires, is a verse in the song that goes as follows:

“Over time, I’ve been building my castle of love,

Just for two, though you never knew you were my reason,

I’ve gone much too far, for you now to say

that I’ve got to throw my castle away.”

Fear and Resistance

This phrase reminds me of how we oftentimes do not communicate, or act on, things that we desire or are passionate about. There are many reasons for this lack of communication and action such as fear of rejection, fear of failure, or simply a resistance to change.

In many cases, we do not take the time to explore our choices in greater depth, or adequately communicate these desires or fears to others, which results in repression and a lack of action- sometimes leading to regret, anxiety or depression.

Breaking Patterns

I believe that this pattern of not acting on our passions and interests out of fear and possibly a desire for predictability, prevents us from truly leading fulfilling and meaningful lives. Many people take the predictable course over following their intuition or passion. Little do we know that by following our passion-we may have increased risk and uncertainty, but ultimately greater reward in our feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction with our lives.

So how do we break this cycle of giving in to fear and predictability, when we know that a change is necessary? To be successful, one must create a plan, be determined to succeed despite obstacles, and get support from others. I have identified some tips for success below.

Wayne’s Top Ten Tips for Getting What You Desire.

1. Know what you want as specifically as possible-visualize what the end state will look and feel like
2. Take the time to assess the pros and cons of doing what you want.
3. Ask others what they think; be ready to accept their feedback, but make your choice based on what you want
4. Create simple, short and long-term action steps to reach your goal.
5. Set dates for accomplishing your short and long-term action steps but don’t be afraid to change them if needed.
6. Only work on a maximum of two action steps at a time
7. Build in positive reinforcers (things that make you happy) for achievement of action steps
8. Brainstorm and have a plan to deal with barriers to your success. Don’t let any set backs de-rail you-stay on track
9. Decide who you will be accountable to, and check in at set intervals. Make sure you build in some positive feedback
10. Ask for help when needed-don’t try to make changes alone

More lyrics of Stevie Wonder’s song “Overjoyed” indicate that through determination and hope you can achieve anything. Here are the relevant verses:

“Over hearts, I have painfully turned every stone

Just to find, I had found what I’ve searched to discover

I’ve come much too far for me now to find

The love that I’ve sought can never be mine

And though you don’t believe that they do

They do come true, for did my dreams

Come true when I looked at you

And maybe too, if you would believe

You too might be overjoyed, over loved, over me.”

So what are you waiting for? Create your plan, and then go after your dreams.