Too often I hear people around me say that all they need is a “good idea”, and how he or she would live happily ever after once conjuring this magical idea. The problem is that it takes so much more than a good idea to find success.

This is something I struggle with personally. I often have an idea that I invest a significant amount of time in at the beginning,but neglect to bring the original idea to fruition.

Having an idea is a lot like passing your drivers test. Sure you’re finally on the road, but you don’t necessarily know where you’re going. It takes a lot more to get from point A to point B than simply having that driver’s license. Think of your long term plan as a road map- without it, you are bound to get lost along the way. A reliable car is necessary to avoid overheating or breaking down, just as a strong work ethic is crucial. Also essential to the trip is the fuel to run the car. The fuel is the motivation you will need to move your idea forward. You might start with a full tank but sputter when motivation runs low, don’t forget to refuel. A day’s rest to stop for gas won’t have you heading for failure, but abandoning your car with an empty tank in the middle of the road will.

An idea is no limo cruise to success, and you can expect the actual ride to get a little bumpy.