From Ordinary to Extraordinary: 5 Proven Steps to Live Your Dream Life
Written by: Caz Makepeace, Founder of yTravelBlog
“Wow! Your life sounds so amazing. You’re so lucky.”
This is a comment I often hear about my life of world travel. I dislike it for two key reasons.
First, calling it luck ignores the deliberate choices I’ve made to turn my dreams into reality. Second, and most critically, it blinds people to their own potential opportunities.
Luck is a myth that disempowers us. It fosters thoughts like “It’ll never happen to me” or “I’m not good enough.” Believers in luck rarely even try for an extraordinary life.
Fortunately, you’re reading this. I’ll share how an ordinary person like me has lived extraordinarily—traveling the world since graduating university in 1997—with no vast wealth, just immense desire.
It took just a few extra choices and actions. The gap between ordinary and extraordinary is that “little bit extra.”
Here are 5 ways to bridge it:
Say Yes to Your Dream
Most people skip this vital first step, staying stuck on their couches, waiting for luck. But saying “yes” signals your commitment, and the universe aligns opportunities to make it happen.
This declaration of desire opens doors you never imagined.
Believe You Deserve It
There’s nothing wrong with you—no reason you can’t live extraordinarily. I remind myself daily: “If others can do it, why not me?” This builds unshakeable belief.
When doubters arise, respond: “Why not? If they can, so can I.”
Seize the Opportunities
Wise elders often say, “I wish I’d taken those chances when I was young.” Age isn’t a barrier, but opportunities arise daily for those who say yes.
They’re not rare lotteries—just steps through opening doors. Take that extra stride.
Make the Necessary Sacrifices
Brand names like Gucci or Prada? They limit dreams with high costs and fleeting value. Luxury fades; memories endure.
Embrace minimalism: cut luxuries, save for experiences. Sacrifices may include time—extra work, less TV, more learning. Identify yours and commit.
Stretch Your Comfort Zone
Progress gradually: chat with the cashier, compliment the waiter, take a language class. Discomfort fuels growth.
Small steps build confidence for your dream’s subtle arrival.
Live with Passion
This secret accelerator: infuse heart into everything. Embrace joy, gratitude, and others as gifts.
Passion attracts wonders. You reap what you sow—and it’s the most rewarding step.
Luck? It’s preparedness meeting opportunity. Extraordinary lives prove it—starting with that extra effort.
About the Author:
Caz Makepeace has lived and traveled the world extraordinarily since 1997. Her husband joined 8 years later, and now their 3-year-old daughter adventures with them. Life is about memories—follow at yTravelBlog and their fanpage.
