The Siren Song of Dreams and Plans
Dreams are intoxicating.
Plans feel productive.
But both can be dangerous if and when they lull you into inaction.
Simon Sarris put it perfectly:
“Dreaming alone is seductive, even a little sweet, since it lacks the pain of trying.”
Just like the Sirens in Greek mythology, who lured sailors with their irresistible songs only to lead them to shipwreck, our grand visions and detailed plans can have the same effect. We chart out the perfect strategy, map every step, and convince ourselves that we’re making progress—when in reality, we’re just adrift.
James Clear, in Atomic Habits, reminds us, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” Translation? No matter how beautiful the dream or how airtight the plan, if there’s no action behind it, it’s just wishful thinking.
These ideas were the genesis of AIGenius .. my follow-up system designed with hundreds of automated activities to consistently communicate with my Cash Offer leads via SMS and email. I'm currently testing using an AI Chatbot with promising results. Next is the development of a Voice AI "receptionist" to answer incoming calls 24/7 so it is more difficult for leads to fall thru the cracks.
Beware the Trap of Over-Planning
I see this all the time with agents and newer real estate investors. They spend months studying the market, networking, reading books, attending seminars—but never actually pull the trigger.
They get lost in the preparation phase, constantly refining their plan, waiting for the “perfect” opportunity.
I've experienced the same thing happens with my fitness, writing, or any of my other ambitious goals. I've told myself that I'm being smart, that I'm “getting ready.”
But deep down, I know the truth: I'm avoiding the work.
Thru my lesser self Little Nicky, The Siren Song of Dreams and Plans whispers, “Just a little more preparation, and then you’ll be ready.” But readiness never comes when I listen to Little Nicky.
What I know it that success isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about stepping forward, even when I don’t have all the answers.
Trading the Dream for the Work
A few weeks ago, I received a Cash Offer lead and the seller hadn't responded to the first 2-3 attempts to connect. I could have spent more time strategizing—figuring out the perfect way to approach the seller, waiting for just the right moment.
But instead, I made the next call and voila . he answered. I scheduled a visit and discussed my offer with the seller. The following day, the seller agreed to my terms over the phone and asked that I visit the house again to sign the contract in person because he didn't have the ability to sign electronically.
I visited as planned, and he told me he signed a contract with another buyer the night prior. I was annoyed at the lack of communication, but didn't let him on. I wished him well and asked if I could stay in touch.
The deal he agreed to was supposed to close today - Feb 14th. I followed up with him again earlier this week and learned the other investor had not been fully transparent in their dealings with the seller and he cancelled their contract.
I told him I was still interested and would proceed with my initial offer. He agreed again, but given my previous experience I knew I had to get to him quickly. Tough part -- I was heading out of town for the week.
Having great investing partners, I was able to ask one to go to the property to get the contract signed and 24 hours later I was in possession of a signed contract .. in part because I had the best offer for the seller.
For sure because I took immediate action. We are scheduled to close in 14 days. With a cosmetic renovation in place, the projected profit after the renovation is completed and sold is $22,000.
Anchoring Yourself in Effort
Simon Sarris warns, “If you really want something, then the soul must make demands of the body.” This is where most people fall short. They love the idea of success but don’t love the work required to get there.
The antidote? Stop planning and start moving.
Instead of creating another to-do list, pick the hardest task and do it now.
Instead of refining your strategy, take the next step, even if it’s imperfect.
Instead of dreaming about success, demand it from yourself—through action.
The people who win in business, fitness, and life aren’t the ones with the best plans. They’re the ones who take the most action.
So, I’ll ask you:
Where in your life have you been seduced by the Siren Song of Dreams and Plans?
And what’s the one thing you can do today—right now—to break free?
Because success isn’t found in another perfect plan. It’s found in the work.
