Turning Dreams Into Reality: No Excuses

We all have dreams, visions of the lives we want, achievements we aspire to, and goals that ignite our passion. For some, reaching these heights feels almost effortless. They stride forward, propelled by an inner momentum that doesn’t waver. But for others, the journey is filled with obstacles, setbacks, and moments of doubt. What fuels the difference between those who persevere and those who lose their way?

The answer isn’t simple but a blend of factors. Ask yourself:

• How much do you honestly want it?

• Are you clear on the cost of not reaching your goal?

• Can you visualize what your life would look like when you achieve it?

• How easily do you let yourself slip into excuses?

  
  

These questions offer a guide, challenging you to think about your commitment and identify what may be holding you back.

One day, while walking on the waterfront trail near my home, I noticed two men up ahead. One was sitting on the grass beside the path, and the other stood near him. My first thought was that someone might be injured. But as I drew closer, I could see there was no urgency or distress in the distant conversation.

Then, the seated man crawled along the path slowly but with determination. His friend watched, supportive and calm. My first impression was that maybe this man was struggling with something beyond his control, perhaps battling an addiction. But as I approached, I turned off my headset to hear more.

What I heard was surprising. The man on his hands and knees commented on the path’s even texture, noting how well-suited it was for crawling. As I passed, I told him how impressed I was by his attitude. Without prying, I noticed he wore gloves and knee pads, and his friend shared that this crawl was part of his routine, a way for him to stay active and maintain his health. Despite being unable to walk, he found a way to keep his body moving, honouring his commitment to wellness.

That memory has stayed with me, reminding me of how many excuses I’ve made in my own life and the reasons I’ve conjured up to justify not doing the hard things required to make my dreams real. If this man could find a way to stay active in his unique and challenging way, what’s stopping me from taking the necessary steps toward my dreams? What’s stopping any of us?

Today, let’s pause to reevaluate. Let’s look at the dreams we’ve set aside, the goals we’ve postponed, and the excuses we’ve allowed. What would happen if we faced them head-on? Imagine the momentum we could build if we embraced a “no-excuse” approach to our dreams.

Dreams require commitment, resilience, and willingness to go beyond our comfort zones. Like that man on the path, find your way forward. Move, crawl if you must, but don’t let excuses hold you back. Join me in the pursuit of our dreams.

Let's turn possibility into reality.

PS.

Not long after sharing this, I found myself walking along the beautiful waterfront trail, soaking in its blissful peace. That’s when I encountered the Crawling Man who, in truth, is Rob Matthews of Belleville.

Rob shared his story with me: he lost most of the use of his legs following what seemed like an insignificant hit during a friendly hockey game. But over the weeks and months that followed, his muscles gradually atrophied until he could no longer walk.

Later, Rob invited me to speak at a dinner, an unexpected and significant honour that I will always treasure.