7 Easy Ways to Turn Your Dreams Into Reality

Article Updated: August 5, 2024

You’re a doer, an innovator, a game-changer with unique passions and big dreams. That’s awesome...except when the thought of achieving your goals feels totally overwhelming. But no worries -- you’ve got this. No matter how daunting your dreams feel, nothing is too big to achieve. Use these simple tips to stay calm, confident, and organized as you prepare to make your dreams a reality.

1. Dream Big

Nothing is more stressful than that “so, where do you see yourself in five years” conversation, especially if you aren’t quite sure what path you want to pursue. Thinking about the future can be intimidating, but don’t limit yourself to what seems most practical or conventional. You have so much potential and the possibilities for you are endless. Think outside of the box and dream big! Your future is yours to create.

2. Visualize Your Goals

Yes, it’s important to dream big. But turning those dreams into reality is much harder if you don’t have a clear picture of what you want. Charting your goals on a vision board gives your wild imagination a little more structure. Vision boards help motivate and inspire you to achieve your goals. Though vision boards can act as a sort of guide for your future, the best part about them is that they aren’t set in stone -- you can change it as many times as you need to without lessening its positive effect.

3. Take Breaks When You Need Them

There’s so much pressure on students to not only know exactly what they’ll be doing for the rest of their lives but also to be working towards that goal non-stop. If you’re feeling exhausted from the day-to-day grind, give yourself a break. Practicing an idle five minutes during periods of high stress is a great way to recharge and refocus. Don’t let yourself burn out, and don’t feel guilty for taking a moment to pause.

4. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Watching your peers hit major milestones can be frustrating, especially when those same accomplishments seem to be slipping through your fingers. Comparing yourself to others is almost unavoidable, but try not to let it get to you. Trade negative self-talk for positive affirmations and replace envy with gratitude. Celebrating even your smallest victories gives you the perfect self-esteem boost to help you take on your next challenge.

5. Stay organized With a 1-3-5 List

Keeping track of everything you need to accomplish in one day isn’t always as easy as it sounds, especially when projects pile up and due dates overlap. Making a typical to-do list can help streamline those tasks, but a 1-3-5 list simplifies your life even more. Start by outlining one list of everything you need to finish. Then organize those tasks into three different buckets: big, medium, and small. Using a 1-3-5 list helps you prioritize your projects and manage your time in an effective, intentional way.

6. Don’t Be Discouraged By Small Setbacks

You can make the most detailed plan for your future, but there’s no telling what curveballs might be thrown your way. Whether it’s a sluggish day at practice or a rejection from an opportunity you were seeking, don’t let a little disappointment throw you off course. These setbacks can be discouraging in the moment, but they’re also great opportunities to continue learning and growing. Sometimes a step away from your desired path can end up being a step in the right direction.

7. Use Your Community

While your dreams are unique to you, you don’t have to chase them alone. Always remember that you’re surrounded by friends, family, coaches, teachers, and mentors to offer support. Never be afraid to ask for help or advice -- your community loves you and wants to see you succeed as much as you do.

DoSomething.org is the largest not-for-profit exclusively for young people and social change. Our digital platform is activating 6 million young people (and counting!) to create offline impact in every US area code and in 131 countries.