"Para llegar a un puerto debemos zarpar. Zarpar, no anclar. Zarpar, no a la deriva."

Taking action is essential for achieving our goals. Simply put, if you have a destination in mind, you have to actively work toward it. Think about it—no ship ever reached a new land by staying tied up at the dock or by aimlessly drifting around. You have to set your course and start sailing.

This idea has roots in both history and personal experience. Navigators and explorers from centuries ago, like Christopher Columbus, had to take bold, decisive action. They didn’t just sit around waiting for things to happen; they embarked on perilous journeys with a clear intent. Similarly, in our personal lives, whether you're striving for a new job, learning a new skill, or improving your health, you need to take specific steps to make progress.

Let’s talk about a real-life example: Imagine you're a young entrepreneur wanting to start a business. You have an idea for a product that you believe could be a game-changer. Now, if you just sit around dreaming about it, nothing will happen. But if you take actionable steps—market research, creating a business plan, seeking investors, developing a prototype—that’s when you actually “set sail.” There will be risks and rough seas for sure, but that’s part of the journey. An example could be Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx. She didn’t just dream about revolutionizing women’s undergarments; she took the plunge, invested her savings, and worked tirelessly to make her vision a reality.

For practical application, start by setting clear, actionable goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. If you want to write a book, don’t just say, “I want to be an author.” Set aside time each day to write, even if it’s just a page. Join a writing group, get feedback, and keep improving. It’s like setting your sails—each action propels you forward.

Now, think about a relatable scenario. Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend, talking about wanting to get fit. Your friend keeps saying, “I really need to get in shape,” but they never actually go to the gym or change their diet. You might say, “Hey, why don’t we sign up for that new yoga class together?” By committing to a specific action, like joining a class, you’re both “setting sail” rather than just talking about it.

In your own life, it’s easy to get caught up in the comfort of routine or the fear of the unknown. But remember, no great achievement comes from standing still or drifting without direction. So, set your sights on that distant port—whatever it may be for you—and start sailing. Embrace the journey with all its uncertainties, and you might just find that the act of moving forward is as rewarding as reaching your destination.