“The future depends on what you do today.” – Mahatma Ghandi

As someone who works in the spiritual world, I am a firm believer that setting your intention is a powerful way to manifest your desires. Whether it is finding love, a thriving and satisfying career, or a more meaningful existence, believing that something is possible will get you that much closer to bringing it into reality. However, it would be a mistake to think that intention alone can bring you what you want. The Universe wants to grant your wish, but what they really respond to is taking action.

I know that this is easier said than done. Taking action requires stepping out of our comfort zone, and this can feel very scary. I know what it is like to want an intention to magically appear. Since I was a child, I have felt a strong connection to Japan’s culture and always wanted a chance to visit. I took Japanese lessons from my friend Ann’s mother, and dreamed about places that I had never been. In my mind’s eye I would walk along serene gardens outside of classical Buddhist temples, smelling the fragrant cherry blossoms. I told my parents that I had lived there in previous lifetimes, which was probably a lot to hear from a young child!

As an adult, I was certain in my belief that I was going to visit Japan. And yet I never took any concrete steps to make it happen. I just hoped that the opportunity would land right in my lap, but it never did. And then something changed. I got tired of waiting, and realized that I needed to show the Universe that I was serious. I began telling friends and colleagues about my wish to travel to Japan. One day I was speaking with my friend Alan, a colleague who I admire deeply. Alan is a fellow Japanophile, so I asked him for advice. I told him about my fascination with Japanese culture, and my long-held desire to visit. And then something amazing happened. He emailed colleagues of his in Japan and introduced me to them.

That happened a year ago, and I am delighted to say that I am writing these words to you from Japan! Not only did I get to come visit, but I am here doing the work that I love so much. I am so blessed and grateful to be here, and it all feels so familiar. It feels like the Universe is saying “Finally! We were waiting for you to take some action so we could give this gift to you!”

I want you to know that you can have the life that you want and manifest your dreams. You must believe that it is possible, and allow yourself to dream big. But it is crucial that you also take action towards getting what you want. Don’t worry about how big or small the action, every little bit counts. The bigger the action step, the quicker you manifest your dreams. I believe in you, and I want you to believe in yourself. How can you take action today to manifest your dream? Please let me know in the comments below!