A1* - ​Action without study is fatal. Study without action is futile.

Action without study is fatal. Study without action is futile.

This quote reminds me that "learning without doing" is pointless.

Of course, "doing without learning" can be disastrous, but most high school educated people (and definitely all BiggerPockets members) do not struggle with learning. Our upbringing teaches us that we need to read the instructions before we play the game or that we need to learn to walk before we can run.

They harder part for most people, especially aspiring real estate entrepreneurs, is putting our knowledge into action.

In order to make our dreams a reality, we have to push through paralysis by analysis. We can't sacrifice our future by sitting still. 

We have to learn AND act!

I have to remind myself of this message often. My dreams aren't going to come to me. I have to go get them.

Every day, I'm learning, but every day I'm acting upon that knowledge. I have to take deliberate steps to reach my goals.

Pushing myself outside of my comfort zone is not something I enjoy doing, but because I have big dreams that I want to realize I must move forward.

The 3 best ways I have found to move myself to action are as follows.

1. Focus on the prize

Keeping what I'm trying to accomplish in the forefront of my mind is the best call to action I know.

2. Surround myself with positive influences

I constantly reinforce my plan by listening to people, books, podcasts, videos, forums, etc. that encourage me to stay on course.

3. Track my progress

Measuring something that indicates whether I'm moving toward my goal is another useful tool I practice every day.

When I do those three things, I am much more likely to act.

What tricks or techniques do you use to make sure your study isn't futile?

*Be sure to read the Intro post to this blog series to get the most out of it.