We’ve all said it:
“One day, I’ll start that business.”
“Soon, I’ll write that book.”
“Eventually, I’ll step into my calling.”
But here’s the truth: talk is cheap.
Saying it and doing it are worlds apart—and the bridge between them is action.
This isn’t just about laziness. Sometimes we’re overwhelmed, afraid, or unsure of where to start. But here’s the uncomfortable truth:
Until you take action, nothing changes.
No matter how exciting or clear your vision is, if it never moves into implementation, it remains just that—a dream.
The Gap Between Vision and Action
You might be in a place where the vision is clear, but progress feels painfully slow. You’ve poured energy into your dream. You’ve strategised, prayed, planned—maybe even started—but it still feels stuck.
That’s because between where you are and where you want to be, there’s always a gap.
Sometimes, it’s a healthy gap.
It means your vision is bigger than your current reality—which is a good thing. It shows you’re growing.
But you can’t stay there. You need to build a bridge across the gap.
Here are three common gaps that might be holding you back:
1. The Mindset Gap
This one is internal.
It sounds like:
- “What if I fail?”
- “What if I’m not ready?”
- “What if I succeed and can’t keep up?”
It’s fear. Doubt. Imposter syndrome.
And it’s dangerous—because it doesn’t shout. It whispers.
2. The Skills Gap
Maybe you don’t know how to execute your vision—yet. That’s okay.
Skills can be developed.
Read. Learn. Practise.
Ask for help. Seek feedback. Grow on purpose.
3. The Resource Gap
Let’s be honest. Often, we call it the finance gap.
But the real issue isn’t money—it’s motion.
Many grand visions start with little. What holds us back isn’t the lack of resources—it’s the unwillingness to start with what we have.
Four People. Four Stories. Four Lessons.
Let’s bring this home with real-life stories:
Tunde – The Thinker Who Never Starts
Tunde hates his job and knows he’s capable of more. He’s read books, attended courses, and written multiple business plans.
But he’s never taken the first step.
He’s still stuck—just more frustrated.
💡 Lesson: You can’t test an idea you never try. Action brings clarity.
Kwame – The Solo Struggler
Kwame is brilliant at what he does. But he works long hours, refuses to hire help, and fears others will steal his clients.
Three years later, he’s exhausted and still stuck.
💡 Lesson: Fear of loss keeps you small. Growth requires trust and team.
Zanele – The Planner Without a Move
Zanele loves her job but knows there’s more. Her notebook is full of great ideas. But the thought of reducing her hours—and pay—terrifies her.
So she keeps dreaming. But never doing.
💡 Lesson: There will never be a perfect time. Start with what you have.
Mary Kay – The Woman Who Acted
In 1963, Mary Kay Ash quit her job after being passed over for promotion. She wanted to write a book. That book turned into a business plan. That plan evolved into Mary Kay Cosmetics, a global, multimillion-dollar company.
She didn’t wait. She acted.
💡 Lesson: One bold step can create a legacy.
How to Build the Bridge
Want to move from vision to reality? Here’s your starter checklist:
✅ Start with Mindset
- Replace fear with faith.
- Speak life over your vision.
- Surround yourself with doers, not doubters.
✅ Build Skills
- Read. Practise.
- Get coaching or mentorship.
- Equip your team if needed.
✅ Take Courageous Steps
- Do it afraid.
- Focus on progress, not perfection.
- Start small, stay consistent.
✅ Use What You Have
- Stop waiting for perfect conditions.
- Use what’s in your hand.
- Grow as you go.
What’s Your Story?
You may not become the next Bill Gates or Mary Kay Ash.
But you will become someone who tried. Someone who took a step. Someone who changed their future.
So here’s a simple challenge:
✍️ Take the First Step
Write down one idea you’ve been putting off.
List three small steps you can take this week.
Commit to doing the first one today.
Now I ask again
What’s your story?
What’s the one step you can take right now to move your vision forward?
