Joanne and I just returned from several days in Chicago – our annual pre-Christmas jaunt to relax, enjoy the lights, and celebrate Joanne’s birthday. We ate at our favorite restaurants, strolled through the decorated stores, browsed in art galleries, enjoyed a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan, were guests at a wonderful storytelling event, and talked with friendly people everywhere. Having done this for many years now, we are quite familiar with the Magnificent Mile, the Water Tower and other notable landmarks.
We’ve always been impressed with the parks, walkways, and beautiful architecture along the waterfront in Chicago. The primary designer behind the
layout that preserved the lakefront was Daniel H. Burnham. 
Burnham is noted for one famous quotation which is still seen at multiple places around Chicago, including at the base of the Willis (Sears) Tower:
“Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men’s blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans; aim high in hope and work, remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die.” Daniel H. Burnham
Now there’s a challenge – make no little plans! As we start a New Year make sure that the plans you are making are big enough to excite and motivate you. Risk more, stretch more, and make more mistakes. Remember, the cautious never reach new shores or climb big mountains. If there were not the possibility of failure, the thrill of victory would be missing. If you want to travel more, double or triple your income, invent the next Frisbee or launch the next Starbucks, you must set big goals. Greatness and a unique calling are not reserved for pastors, celebrities and artists. All of us have in our heart the image of the person we can be and the life we can live.
I’m planning to complete two major book projects in 2015 and eight additional 48Days products. In 2014 I had as goals to complete the 10th Year Anniversary Edition of 48 Days to the Work You Love, start a high-level Mastermind and get an original Scott Stearman eagle sculpture created and installed here at the Sanctuary. And I’m thrilled that those did in fact happen. I might also add that I always set my goals so I have about a 50-50 chance of hitting them. I did not hit my income goals for 2014. I still need to lose a few pounds to get down to my college weight. But I like to “dream big” and then enjoy the process of incremental success. So if I “only” produce 1 new book and 4 additional products this next year, that will still be light years ahead of the average guy on the street who’s dreaming of writing a book someday.
What are your “big plans” for 2015?
Happy New Year Dan and family. I have been following you for years along with listening to Dave Ramsey. I’ve gotten myself on the right track financially but then the bottom dropped out. I drive over the road … a job I have wanted since I was 14! Made my dream come true at 40! My husband and I bought our own truck in 97 and contracted to FEDEX GROUND for 14 years earning a very good living loving what I do! Traveling and seeing the country and getting paid to do it. Then husband and I divorced. He sold the truck but we stayed trucking together for another contractor. Then he became diabetic and medication got mixed up. Now I’m out there with different drivers to fill in. Not loving it anymore but it’s what I’ve done for 19 years. It’s what I still love but not with some stranger or even solo. I’m in stuck mode ! There is no clear vision here and even though I’m staying positive… he is not coming back to work. So I’m on my own for the first time in my life to depend on me and no one else. I have your book 48 days to the work you love. I read your emails but nothing is coming through. I would really appreciate some guidance ! Thank You !
What about posting on an online ad maybe even on a dating site to find a new partner for your routes? Or ask your contracting company whether they can link you up. It sounds like you love what you do but just need a new partner on the road. Surely there is someone out there who would like to share your travels.
Great post. I enjoying hearing the things you did not get done, as it shows you are human and that as you stated, you still got a lot done.
I am working on my goals today, with the help of the 48 Days print outs. Thank you guys.
Note: 2012? 😉
Happy New Year Dan!
I must say that I am very curious with regard to upcoming revision of 48 Days To The Work You Love and will certainly be picking up a copy. Here’s to what undoubtedly will be a great success!
Great post Dan – thanks for the steady stream of inspiration!
Thanks for the post, Dan. I am a pastor and appreciate the religious perspective you bring to your coaching. I wish you a productive and awesome 2015.