(Photo courtesy of Werner Du Plessis/unsplash.com)
Every one of us has a vision of who we want to be—a future self we look up to, aspire toward, and work for. Maybe it’s the person who finally writes that book, starts a business, or travels the world. For some, it might be finding peace within, building a legacy, or making a meaningful impact. But how often do we actually take that vision seriously enough to make it happen?
For most of us, these dreams can feel like “impossible goals”—things that feel out of reach, too big or too risky. But here’s the truth: it’s only impossible if you never start.
What’s Your “Impossible Goal”?
Let’s talk about that “impossible goal” for a moment. Do you have one? Maybe it’s that dream that’s been tugging at you for years, something you think about but haven’t pursued because it feels too daunting. For some, it’s a career change or a creative endeavor. For others, it’s about making a difference in the world, or simply becoming the best version of themselves.
Whatever that goal is, don’t dismiss it as a pipe dream. Your future self, the one you look up to, isn’t wishing for small things; they’re aiming big because they know that greatness is never built from playing small. In fact, an “impossible goal” is only impossible if you’re trying to achieve it in a single leap. But if you break it down, step by step, the impossible becomes achievable.
The Meaning and Purpose of Today
Now, how does that future self shape the way you live today? Every great journey is driven by a sense of purpose, and achieving an “impossible goal” requires more than just motivation—it takes a deeper why.
Ask yourself, “Why does this goal matter?” Why do you want to make that change, or achieve that dream? Purpose is what keeps you going when things get tough, when motivation wanes, or when the initial excitement wears off. If your goal is to write a novel, for instance, maybe it’s because you want to leave a story behind that will outlive you. If it’s to start a business, perhaps it’s to create a life of freedom for you and your family. Purpose is what transforms ambition into commitment, and commitment is what transforms dreams into reality.
Today’s actions, however small, are a testament to that purpose. Each little step you take, each task you complete, builds a bridge from your present self to your future self. Your purpose fuels these actions, giving meaning to the daily grind and lending focus to the choices you make.
Bold and Committed Action
So what bold and committed action will you take? Remember, your future self isn’t waiting for the “perfect” time—they’re counting on you to start now. Commit to a single, powerful step toward your “impossible goal.” What will it be? It could be setting aside time every day for that goal, making a tangible investment, or having the courage to share your dreams with others, even if they sound unrealistic.
Imagine you’re aiming to get in the best shape of your life, but it feels overwhelming. You don’t need to become an athlete overnight; you just need to take a single bold action, like signing up for a fitness class or buying a pair of running shoes. Your commitment turns the impossible into progress. Small, courageous steps taken consistently lead to transformation.
What Will You Complete Within the Next Year?
One year is a powerful timeframe. It’s long enough to see meaningful progress but short enough to stay focused. So, what will you complete within the next year? If your “impossible goal” feels too big for that timeline, choose a milestone along the way. Set a specific goal that will bring you closer to that ultimate dream. If your goal is to write a novel, maybe it’s writing the first draft. If you want to launch a business, it might be creating a business plan and a prototype.
The goal doesn’t have to be the entire journey—just the next significant step. By the end of the year, you’ll not only be closer to your future self, but you’ll also have tangible proof that the “impossible” isn’t so impossible after all.
Becoming Your Future Self Starts Now
The road to becoming your future self is paved with the choices you make today. Embracing your purpose, committing to bold action, and setting tangible goals transforms that distant dream into a concrete reality. One day, you’ll look back and realize that your “impossible goal” was the journey that gave your life meaning, purpose, and a sense of profound accomplishment.
The path won’t always be easy, but every step you take brings you closer to the person you’ve always wanted to be. So, what will you do today to move closer to your future self? Whatever it is, start now—and remember, the impossible goal is only impossible until it isn’t.
Bob Fagan has just published “The Little Book of Questions That Matter — A Lifetime Companion For Transforming Your Life.” It is available on Amazon. All proceeds through 2025 will be donated to charity.
