Where there’s a will there’s a way

Wishes don’t have to remain pipe dreams. However, to make them reality you need above all a lot of willpower, a little courage – and a plan.

Text: Julie Freudiger; photo: Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash

Motivation: be determined to succeed

It’s hard to change old habits or entrenched patterns of behaviour, because the willpower that a person can muster per day is limited. So, don’t set the bar too high, only try to change one habit at a time, and plan individual steps.

Turn negative dogmas around

“There’s no way I can do that” or “That’s just not done”: Negative dogmas act like an internal brake. Pick up on your negative dogmas and turn them around – like Pippi Longstocking: “I have never tried that before, so I think I should definitely be able to do it.”

Vision boards: visualise your wish

Vision boards are currently all the rage. And it’s true: big posters on which you present your wish in the form of a collage using pictures, newspaper clippings, objects and words really help. Studies show that the process of designing the poster connects you emotionally with your goal – and emotions bolster willpower.

State your goal

Good intentions are easily forgotten. Be aware of what you really want. Formulate your goal clearly and write it down. Coaching: get external support If you don’t know how to put your ideas into practice, a professional coach can help to clarify the situation, identify negative dogmas and highlight the next steps. A coach’s unbiased view of you and your situation creates clarity. Family and friends are often too nice or resistant to fundamental changes.

Crowdfunding: raise money

Some wishes don’t just require courage and willpower, they also need money. One straightforward method of raising money that is currently very popular is crowdfunding. All you have to do is enter your project on one of the many online platforms that are available. Private individuals usually contribute smaller sums to the projects, but corporate financing is also possible. In Switzerland there are over 40 crowdfunding platforms with different focuses to choose from.  

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