From Daydream to Dream Job

We’ve settled into the rhythm of the new year. Vacations are in the rearview mirror, new projects are getting ramped up.

And there you are, sitting in the car, crawling on the highway on the way to the office. You’re wondering when you’re going to finally pull the trigger on your big, hairy, audacious goal.

The one that’s been keeping you up at night, and daydreaming during another boring meeting.

Your career moonshot.

The move to another department. The move to another company. The move to another industry.

What are the tools and mindsets will you need to launch your dream into reality?

The Power of Action: Launching Your Career Moonshot

Every moonshot begins with a single step. For astronauts, it’s the launch—a moment of precision, bravery, and trust. For you, it could be sending that first email, making that first call, or applying for that first role.

This is your chance to move from dreaming to doing. The question is: Are you ready to take action?

A dream without action is just a wish. All the planning, the strategizing, the visualizing is necessary, yes. Nothing changes until you take the first step. Action builds momentum, and momentum turns possibility into reality.

Every small win gives you confidence, and that confidence fuels the next step, creating a ripple effect that brings your dream closer.

Even if your first steps feel small to you, they are laying the foundation of something much bigger. Let’s say your moonshot is to write a book—your first step might be setting aside 15 minutes a day to write.

Over time, those 15 minutes add up to a chapter, and then a draft, and eventually, a completed manuscript. The magic of action is that it compounds.

Facing Resistance Head-On

Now, fear, self-doubt, and perfectionism are natural parts of the process. They show up like a ghost whispering in your ear, “What if I fail?”, or “What will people think?” The key isn’t to hush these voices, but to continue forward anyway.

Resistance often disguises itself as procrastination, overthinking, or the need to “wait for the right time.” But here’s the truth: The right time is now. If you want to overcome resistance, ask yourself this question: “What’s one thing I can do today, even if I’m scared?”

Maybe it’s reaching out to someone for advice, posting about your goal on LinkedIn, or setting a deadline for your next step. The act of doing, no matter how small you think it is, is what matters.

Celebrate the Progress You’ve Made

As you’re pursuing your big moonshot, it can be too easy to overlook the journey and pay more attention to the destination. But progress, no matter how incremental, is worth celebrating.

Did you learn something new today? Did you make a new connection? Did you take a small step outside your comfort zone? Each of these is a win that deserves recognition.

Celebrating your progress isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about reinforcing the habit of action. Every time you acknowledge your efforts, you create a positive feedback loop that keeps you motivated and engaged.

Building a Rhythm That Lasts

Action is most powerful when it’s sustainable. Look at your moonshot like it’s a marathon, and not a sprint. Make sure you create routines that support consistent effort without burning you out. Schedule time for reflection, rest, and recalibration.

Your goal is not only to achieve your moonshot; it’s also to enjoy the process of getting there.

Your career moonshot is more than a destination—it’s a journey of growth, transformation, and discovery. And the moment you take action, you’ve already succeeded in the most important way possible: you’ve chosen to bet on yourself.

I’m Richard Taliaferro. I’m a certified health and career coach specializing in helping mid-stage professionals gain clarity on their career journey. I’ve written a guide on how to escape the work hamster wheel. Click here to download yours.