A few years ago a friend and I were sitting outside watching the world go by. We both had the day off and decided to take it easy.
We chatted and watched the traffic and people until eventually the conversation drifted into the future and achieving goals.
We talked about what we had done and what we had not. Opportunities gained and lost.
I mentioned that it was my intention to travel and see more of the world.
My friend looked at me and with a smile pointed out that I didn't seem to be doing much about it.
Actually, I had been planning for years.
I explained that I use my own method which I call 'Tunnels'.
I was urged to explain further.
Pretend you are looking down a tunnel, at the end is your goal. On the sides there are no distractions.
How can you get through the tunnel and reach the goal?
How long will it take you to reach the goal? 
Are there any side tunnels? 
For myself I had the longest tunnel which would lead me to living abroad.
But first I had to navigate a few side tunnels, because reaching the ultimate goal meant making some changes.
The first few had already been done. I had taken a course on Saturdays during the summer and obtained a certificate making me qualified to work overseas. 
One side tunnel complete. 
I had visited the embassy and received all my permissions to travel. Another side tunnel done.
I had saved up enough to get my ticket.
Third tunnel finished.
I just had to pack my bags and pick a date.
The last and longest tunnel goal was coming into vision.
My friend seemed surprised. 
From his point of view I was just doing the same thing for years. But in reality I was planning, setting goals, getting results. None of it was easy or quick.
My advice is to have a timer on your tunnels.
Ask yourself where you want to be in 10 years, 5 years and even next year. 
Once you begin the journey you will learn a lot about yourself. 
You will discover things you never realized before. 
Today my friend told me he is through another side tunnel and can see the end of his long tunnel. A dream he always had but never knew how to accomplish. 
Now his sister wants me to explain to her sbout this crazy tunnel idea.