We all dream to be successful in the near future. Many of us get antsy when we feel like we’re not working toward the success we crave for. This is going to be the last thing you want to hear, but great things usually start small. It is the little things done in the days that laziness wants to take over, that count. In life, it is always about the little things. “Little things” don’t just refer to romantic gestures, they are the essential puzzles pieces to any greater aspect of life worth having. After being in college for three years, I’ve learned five things that have already made me more successful in the small amount of time I’ve been practicing them.

1. Do what you say you will do

This one seems like common sense, but you’d be surprised. Even little instances of not practicing integrity reveals your true character to others. People support, invest in, trust, and look up to those with extravagant character. If you tell someone you’re going to do something, then do it.

It’s as simple as that. If there is even a question that you can’t deliver, then say no. “No” earns more respect than someone who can’t stop saying yes. The respect of those close to you will help you more than you know down the road. Successful people keep their word and do what they say they will do.

2. Keep a book of ideas

Over this Christmas break, I started doing this. It has helped me organize my thoughts immensely. In the past, I have always had many brainstorming ideas only to lose them later because I never documented them. Future career goals, subjects to write about, places you want to visit, dreams and aspirations. Anything.

It is a proven fact that writing something down doubles the chances of it happening. Doesn’t matter how stupid or unrealistic you think it is, it is worth putting in a book with all your other thoughts. You might look back years from now and see what you’re living, written in your book.

3. Don’t discredit your gifts

This one is what took me so long to realize. You are not someone else and that’s okay. Do what you love and do what you’re good at. Everyone is good at something, you just have to find what it is. Don’t envy others who are talented in different areas than you, be excited for them. There is a career and path created just for you.

The fun is realizing your strengths and where they fit in best. Life is too short to be wishing and discrediting what you’re good at. Once you realize what your gifts are, use them. Wear them out. That’s what they’re there for. You wouldn’t buy some nice shoes and then never wear them. That’s silly.

4. Do something every day to work toward success

This is where that term “little things” comes into play. Now, I’m not saying every day you have to slave away at making sure you’re successful. I’m simply saying do something every single day to work toward it, a little at a time.

Work on your website, do some research on the new career you’re interested in, get up earlier, set more goals, do anything that will make you better in the future. Take that ambition and put it to work. Anyone wanting to be successful knows it takes work. So, do something to push you forward every day, even if it's little.

5. No dream is unrealistic

I’m going to say this again, NO DREAM IS UNREALISTIC. Whoever the heck told you to lower your expectations needs to be cut out of your life. You are great, and you can do whatever you want to do. Take your gifts that you realized two paragraphs ago, and run with them. It doesn’t matter if you don’t reach the end destination right away, it just matters that you’re making progress.

Please know that it is okay to outgrow people, places, or a season of life. That happens for a reason. Be smart and patient, because there is always a right time for everything. Chasing your dreams is impossible if you choose to pass up opportunities out of fear. So, if you fail, keep pushing forward. Eventually, your time will come. You are talented, important, and you will accomplish great things.