Unleashing the Eric Clapton Within: How I Started Chasing My Dream at 58

Have you ever wished you could do something and then never followed up?

From when was a teenager, I dreamed of playing the guitar, standing on stage, being adored by fans or just picking up an instrument and playing something to make people smile. How cool would that be. I watched and listened to people like Eric Clapton and thought, “I’d love to do that!” I even had a go a few times to teach myself, but gave up after a very short while. So, at the age of 58, I still couldn’t play a note worth listening to.

Last year, however, that all changed.

I made some simple changes so that now I am playing every day, learning new chords, trying out techniques and exercises. I am no Eric Clapton, but I am enjoying a hobby that I have put off for 40 years.

You can do the same. It’s not rocket science, either.

1. Decide what you want to do.

2. Think about why it is important to you.

3. Imagine how it would feel doing whatever it is. Create a strong mental image of how life would be different doing it and how others would see you differently.

4. What is the first small thing you can do to move you towards the goal? It shouldn’t be something you can’t do: it has to be easily achievable.

5. When you have done that one small thing, celebrate! (Yes, really! Celebrate in some way because you have moved towards your goal. It may be just a mental pat on the back, “Go me!” but give yourself credit.)

6. Think about what could stop you doing those small things that are going to help you reach your goal. (This is where many of our dreams fade: we don’t plan for the stumbling blocks).

7. Make a plan for the blocks. “If [fill in the blank] happens, then I will [fill in the blank].” This helps to stop you being despondent when things go wrong, because you know you have a backup plan.

What helps you to reach your goals? Share in the comments below.