10 Ways to Keep Going! Why You Started Matters More Than You Think. (Even When You’re Scared)
1. Remember Why You Started
Think back to what lit the fire in you. When I left military life behind to travel the U.S. in an RV, I wasn’t just exploring new places. I was rediscovering myself. Ask yourself: What’s pulling at your heart? What would it look like if you finally said “yes” to it? I wanted to make a difference—and that mission carries on in my coaching business. Write that reason down and stick it somewhere visible—it’ll keep you grounded when the going gets tough.
Did You Know: Studies show that people who regularly revisit their “why” are 63% more likely to follow through with their goals. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “When your why is big enough, you will find your how.” - Les Brown
2. Focus on What You’ve Got
It’s easy to focus on what you don’t have: more money, experience, or time. But the truth is, you already have enough to start.
When I launched my podcast and my coaching programs, I didn’t have all the answers. What I did have were the lessons I’d learned as a veteran, husband, college student and coach. Take a moment to list three things you’re proud of. That’s your foundation.
Did You Know: Gratitude and focusing on strengths increase personal happiness by 25%. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” - Arthur Ashe
3. Tune Out the Noise
Everyone has an opinion about how you should live your life—but not everyone understands your journey. I heard so many voices telling me what I “should” do. I had to learn to focus on what I wanted instead of what others thought. Growth can be lonely. Not everyone will understand why you’re leaving old habits or relationships behind, and that’s okay. Keep going.
Don’t get lost trying to impress others. Focus on what brings you joy and aligns with your goals, not what looks good on social media.
Did You Know: The average person encounters up to 5,000 advertisements daily major distraction from personal goals. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your inner voice.” - Steve Jobs
4. Take One Small Step Today
Starting doesn’t require perfection—just action.
When I started my RV journey, I didn’t know everything about life on the road. When I wrote my eBook, “The 1 Approach System”, I didn’t have a perfect blueprint. But I showed up and took small steps every day. Maybe for you, it’s applying for that job, signing up for a class, or jotting down a plan. Whatever it is, just start.
Did You Know: Taking one small action reduces procrastination by 20% and improves momentum. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” - Martin Luther King Jr.
5. Learn as You Go
You don’t need to be an expert to begin. Every step you take will teach you something new.
When I started traveling, I didn’t know all the tricks for living on the road. But I learned along the way. Mistakes became lessons, and lessons became progress. Give yourself permission to be a beginner.
Did You Know: 70% of successful entrepreneurs started their business without a complete plan but learned along the way. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “The expert in anything was once a beginner.” - Helen Hayes
6. Surround Yourself with the Right People
You can’t do it alone—and you don’t have to. Groups like the VFW and American Legion were lifelines for me. They connected me to people who understood my journey and supported my goals. On the road, I met people with incredible stories that inspired me to grow. Find your tribe, trust me they’re out there. Join clubs, organizations, or study groups that align with your interests. The people you surround yourself with will shape your future.
Did You Know: Your likelihood of success increases by 30% when you have a supportive network. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”- Jim Rohn
7. Embrace Setbacks as Lessons
My wife and I have faced our share of challenges—from navigating the dynamics of marriage to dealing with personal losses. But every setback taught us something valuable. Failure isn’t the end; it’s feedback. Use it to refocus and keep moving forward.
Did You Know: People who reframe failures as learning experiences are 40% more likely to persevere. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.”- Napoleon Hill
8. Take Care of Your Mental Health
As a combat veteran I know the weight of carrying your past. Therapy, coaching, or even a trusted friend can make all the difference. Life on the road also taught me the importance of slowing down and reflecting. Make space for rest. Stress is real, especially during exams. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Your work, school, or organization likely has resources to support you.
Did You Know: Regular mindfulness practice reduces stress by 30% and boosts focus. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “Self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity.”- Audre Lorde
9. Visualize Your Future Self
I’ve always dreamed of a life where I could travel, inspire others, and build a family. Now, I’m living that dream—but it started with a vision. Close your eyes and picture who you want to be. What does that version of you look like? How do they act? Start showing up as them now.
Did You Know: Athletes who visualize their success are 45% more likely to achieve their goals. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create. -Buddha
10. Just Go for It
You don’t need anyone’s permission to live the life you want. Whether it’s starting a new career, launching a business, or exploring the world, the only person who can make it happen is you. Take the leap! your future self will thank you.
Did You Know: People who take immediate action on their goals are 50% more likely to succeed. (Source)
Cool Quotes That Helped Me: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” -Peter Drucker
This isn’t just a checklist; it’s a call to action! A daily reminder. I’ve been where you are—unsure, overwhelmed, and doubting myself. But I’ve also learned that the only way forward is through belief and action.
If you’re ready to take the first step, check out my free eBook, The 1 Approach System, or join my 6-week course to build the confidence and resilience you need to succeed.
You’ve got this.
Let’s make it happen.
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