This article originally appeared on Forbes.com.
Management expert Ken Blanchard is credited with saying, “There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.”
So, I ask you: When you set goals for your career and your life, are you truly committed to reaching those goals? Are you committed to building a business that works in harmony with the rest of your life? Have you made the commitment to thrive — to build a life that you love, not just earn a living?
If you’re having trouble committing, keep reading, because today I’m going to share three steps that will help you finally make the commitment.
1. Find your passion.
It’s hard to commit to anything if you’re not passionate about it. Passion gets you out of bed in the morning, ready to take on the world. Without passion, it can feel more like just going through the motions.
So I ask you: What are you passionate about? What gets you excited? Is it traveling the world? Time with your kids or grandkids? Are you a history buff?
I’m passionate about travel, cooking, and amateur photography. So, I’ve structured my business and my life in such a way that I can enjoy each of these passions and more. For example, I use the photos I take on my travels as the foundation of my Instagram strategy. And when I give speeches and go to conferences, I make sure to set aside time in my itinerary to explore and take photos. I often make time for a cooking class, as well! This allows me to blend my work with my passions. You can, too.
What are you passionate about and how can you build your career and your life around those passions? Now that is worth committing to.
2. Take the first step.
Most people get stuck because taking the first step is scary. Whether it’s leaving your job to start your own business, changing careers, moving to a new city, or whatever the case may be — change is always scary.
It’s OK if you’re not 100% sure that it’s going to work. Really, when are we 100% sure of anything?
Do your homework. Do your research. Listen to your gut. Talk to a mentor. But then, once you’ve done the work, don’t let fear hold you back. Take the first step!
3. Don’t let doubt creep in.
Doubt will keep you from making progress. It’s OK that you don’t know exactly how the future is going to unfold. Again, do we ever really know what the future holds?
What I can tell you, from decades of experience owning my own business as well as coaching other business owners, is that if you find your passion and you’re committed to taking action, you will find a way to make it work. Your path may look different than you thought it would, but you will get there. Don’t let fear and doubt tell you otherwise.
Make the commitment!
I have helped clients create a business and lifestyle they never thought possible, so I know you can do it. Find your passion. Do your homework and then take the first step. Don’t let fear and doubt hold you back. Make the commitment and I believe you will achieve the results you’re looking for.