Be proud and proactive about being consistent, because it’s through consistency that we prepare for the opportunity to achieve our dreams.

A common mistake made by people in the pursuit of success is failing to be consistent, especially when facing a setback, or when events don’t occur as planned.

Motivated individuals don’t want to wait a decade to see results; more importantly, we don’t ever want to “settle.” However, consistency is not settling. If you have a good job, but you’re not living your dream, it’s acceptable to stay in the situation. Staying in the position until you are ready and adequately resourced to make a move is not settling. Giving up on your dream because you are comfortable is.

Your dream may require patience and opportunity. Have a sense of urgency, but time is all we have when it comes to our grandest goals. It’s believed Caesar wept at Alexander’s grave, “Do you think I have not just cause to weep when I consider that Alexander at my age had conquered so many nations, and I have all this time done nothing memorable?” Do not allow someone’s perceived success to alter your timeline. Your situation is unique to you. Caesar would eventually become infamous and revered.

A friend was in his words “stuck” in the rank of Second Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy. He was one of the sharpest individuals in our division. Nevertheless, it took him 17 years to advance to First Class Petty Officer; in today’s navy, he would have had to move on due to higher tenure. Back then, he could have settled, became comfortable, and retired as a Second Class Petty Officer. Instead, he never stopped performing. He remained consistent in displaying the highest level of performance. And when he advanced to First Class Petty Officer, he would later advance to Chief Petty Officer during his first opportunity, which is abnormal and rare. Next, he reached his dream and was selected to the coveted rank of Chief Warrant Officer on his first application, a milestone many strive for but never achieve.  In FY20 there were 901 applicants, and only 212 were announced.

*This post was inspired by before 5 am  conversation with a Sailor displeased with his current status in the U.S. Navy.