The Power of Implementation: Turning Dreams into Reality

Why is it that so many people have incredible ideas, yet implementing them feels nearly impossible? This phenomenon applies to every aspect of life. We know we should eat healthier and exercise, yet it’s so much easier not to. We set goals, envision success, and even verbalize our dreams, but when it comes time to take action, hesitation creeps in. I’ve had countless conversations with people who feel the same way. We all know what we should do, yet we continuously choose the easy way out.

I once saw an image that perfectly captured this dilemma. It depicted two service windows: one labeled "People Who Actually Do It" and the other labeled "People Who Talk About Doing It." The line at the second window stretched endlessly, while the first window stood virtually empty. This image resonated deeply because it speaks to a truth we often ignore—our minds hold us back. We overthink, we let doubt take root, and we allow fear to dictate our actions. But what if we simply stopped thinking and just did? What if we eliminated the hesitation and acted on our dreams?

Of course, we need to think critically and make mindful decisions, but when it comes to pursuing a dream, improving our health, or growing as individuals, action is the most critical factor. Too often, doubt sneaks in the moment we hear others voice the same aspirations. Instead of embracing one another and pushing forward together, we retreat, convinced that someone else will be better or that our dreams are less attainable. Fear of failure is paralyzing. But how can we ever push forward if we don’t try? How can we achieve success if we never fail? How do we learn valuable lessons if we never allow ourselves to make mistakes?

I’ve had enormous dreams—ones so big that others might laugh. And yes, I do care about what people think. No one enjoys being ridiculed or feeling foolish. But I’ve made a promise to myself: I will always reach for my stars. My stars, not someone else’s. My dreams are uniquely mine, and if someone shares a similar ambition, that should never deter me. I consider myself a lifelong learner, which is ironic because I didn’t particularly enjoy learning in school. I was more interested in the social aspects. But as I’ve matured, my perspective has changed entirely.

We grow up being categorized—placed into boxes based on our skills, interests, and perceived abilities. Mel Robbins spoke about this in an interview, and it struck a chord with me. In the most crucial years of our personal development, we are shaped by the opinions of others. As children, we care far too much about what people think, and that mindset follows us into adulthood. It took me thirty years to trust my own opinions. Thirty years! Why aren’t we taught to think for ourselves at a young age? Instead, when we share our dreams, we’re often met with skepticism or laughter. Why is it absurd to want to be a movie star, a famous singer, a doctor, a teacher, a dancer, or an astronaut? Why do people instantly shoot down ambitions as if they’re unattainable? My daughter once asked why she couldn’t just dream of being a stay-at-home mom. That’s how society treats dreamers—we tell them what they should aspire to be rather than encouraging them to pursue what truly makes them happy.

Perhaps this mindset stems from financial constraints or a lack of real-life success stories within our immediate circles. But if we look at those who have achieved greatness—the people on TV, social media, or those we admire in our industries—how did they get there? One word comes to mind: implementation. They didn’t stand in the line of people who just talk about their dreams; they got into the line of people who actually take action.

So why am I writing this? Because I dare you to take action. I challenge you to take just one dream—one thing you’ve been putting off—and make it a reality. Don’t be afraid, because I will be here cheering you on. I believe in you, and I know you can do this. In fact, we all can. And if you have more than one dream? Then go for them all!

I know what it’s like to chase dreams, and I know what it’s like to fail. But I also know what it’s like to try. I’ve dreamed of playing the piano, and I do—even though I’m far from an expert. As a child, I woke up every Saturday morning singing Annie songs at the top of my lungs, believing I could be her. I once competed in a celebrity karaoke contest, and even though I wasn’t the best singer, I took fourth place. I wanted to be a top softball player, and I became captain of my high school team. I convinced my hair school owner to let me compete in state competitions. At 19, I entered an international avant-garde hairstyling competition in NYC without a clue about what I was doing. I married my high school sweetheart on my 22nd birthday. I opened a business at 24 while six months pregnant. I coached girls’ softball, started a drama club, taught CCD, had children even though I was terrified, volunteered at hospitals and shelters, coached high school sports, got certified in fitness training, pursued a degree in psychology and neuroscience in my forties, learned multiple languages, and so much more.

I have lived my life chasing my passions, and I’m still not done. I still dream of doing hair for celebrities or on movie sets. I still dream of meeting Billy Joel. I still dream of seeing my children’s dreams come true, of becoming a grandmother, and of watching my grandkids pursue their own aspirations. And I know I will continue to dream beyond that.

At first, I cared what people thought. I feared being laughed at. But then, I embraced my uniqueness. Now, if you ask anyone who knows me, they will smile and say, "That’s Renée. Nothing she does surprises me." And you know what? I am not embarrassed. I am not ashamed. I haven’t always succeeded, but I have always followed through.

We grow up being categorized, but we don’t even realize the damage it does to our sense of self. As Mel Robbins points out, after graduation, we are suddenly left to redefine who we truly are, outside of societal expectations. This essay isn’t about boasting; it’s about inspiring. I want you to know that at any age, you are capable of chasing your dreams. It is never too late. You only have one life, and time moves too quickly. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Too many people put off their dreams until retirement, only to find that life has other plans.

I dare you to step into the line of people who take action. I dare you to step outside your comfort zone—because when you do, your comfort zone only expands. Keep dreaming, keep chasing, and most importantly, keep moving forward. Dust settles—don’t let that be you. Go big or go home!