When talking with my ambitious friends, or people in general, they often tell me about their aspirations, their dreams, and goals. Specifically, how they are waiting for just the right chance, the right opportunity to launch into beast mode and accomplish their big dream. Here’s a reality check, ten out of ten times that perspective results in inaction. There is no ‘perfect opportunity’ waiting around the corner to come running when you whistle. And while you justify waiting for this allusive opportunity to come along, time slips away and you don’t get anything done. I propose an alternative route, instead of waiting for opportunity, create it.

Have commitment. When you hear someone say, I would love to have a Tesla one day,  they are stating a preference, not a decision. The difference between preference and decision is commitment. You must decide what results you are committed to, if you don’t you’ll slip below your standards. Decisions, not conditions determine your destiny. And right now, in this moment the most influential and powerful force to create opportunity is one you already possess, the power to make a decision. I’m a firm believer that successful careers are not discovered, but are created by people who are proactively and deliberately dedicated to their goals. If you are committed to creating opportunity, you will.

Have clarity. What kind of opportunity do you want? Do you want to gain experience in a field? Maybe an apprenticeship would be ideal. Do you want to be able to teach what you learned to someone else? Try explaining the concept to a friend. Be clear on what opportunity you want so you can know what skills to build. Sit down, write it out, and try to get as detailed as possible. Having clarity will solidify the steps you need to take to create opportunity.

Have knowledge. Once you know what opportunity you are trying to create, research it. What have people done in the past, find articles, books, YouTube videos, anything to grow your knowledge. After learning as much as possible on your own, extend your search.

Have a mentor. A mentor is someone who has expertise in the specific area you are interested in and can advise you on what action to take. Mentors can be anyone from a family member to someone you just met.  Mentors are extremely helpful, particularly those who have created the opportunity that you want.

Have a network. Take steps to build your network by offering your help and counsel, take notice where you can add value to projects, people’s lives, etc. Be genuinely interested in serving others, use your best skills to improve someone else’s quality of life and they might return the favor. After all, opportunities come from people. “If you’re looking for an opportunity, you’re really looking for people.” – Reid Hoffman, Co-founder of LinkedIn. You can build an incredible professional network, and ultimately open the door to a lot of opportunities, by being helpful, being a connector, and sharing ideas.

Have conversations. Don’t underestimate the power of talking to anyone, even strangers. Don’t be afraid to talk about your projects, without being pushy let people know your interests.  Once you start, you might be surprised who starts pitching in to help you. People love to hear about innovative projects especially when you are passionate. When you are vocal about your goals people will help connect you with resources that you would not have been exposed to otherwise.  

Have a willing attitude. When an opportunity is set before you, don’t hesitate. Take the opportunity and use it to grow your skills. Develop a habit of taking on new opportunities as a way of growing. If you hear negative feedback don’t be discouraged. Successful people have a tougher mentality. Rejection doesn’t discourage them. Make it a point to be observant and learn. People will feel opening to sharing their resources with you.

People who enjoy consistent success know what it takes to make great opportunities happen.

If you’re tired of waiting for the allusive ticket of opportunity, start creating opportunities by developing these habits. You will start to find opportunities and a change in how other people see you. Don’t wait for opportunity, create it.