The Difference Between Who You Are and Who You Want to Be is What You Do
by Kristina Karlsson
Hello, dream chasers!
In this recent episode of our Monday Motivation podcast, I explored a simple yet transformative idea:
"The difference between who you are and who you want to be is what you do."
Isn’t that powerful?
It’s a reminder that your dream life isn’t built on wishes or hopes—it’s created through the actions you take every single day.
The good news?
You don’t need to make massive, life-altering changes overnight. Small, intentional steps can lead you exactly where you want to go.
In this blog post, I’ll share key insights from the episode, including simple strategies you can start using today to become the person you’ve always dreamed of being.
Your Dream Life Starts with Clarity
Before we dive into what you need to do, let’s talk about who you want to be.
Think about the best version of yourself.
What does that look like?
How do you show up in the world?
How do you feel when you wake up each morning?
Try this visualization exercise:
Close your eyes (if it’s safe to do so) and imagine your future self—the version of you living your dream life.
What’s your morning routine like?
Who do you spend time with?
How do you carry yourself throughout the day?
Now ask yourself:
“What’s one thing that version of me does daily that I can start doing today?”
This exercise isn’t just about dreaming—it’s about connecting with the part of you that already exists within.
It’s not some distant version you’ll meet someday; it’s already here, waiting for you to take that first step to let it shine through.
The Power of Micro Actions
One of the biggest obstacles people face when pursuing their dream life is overwhelm.
The vision feels so big that they don’t know where to start. But here’s the secret:
Start small. Really small. Laughably small.
Let’s say you want to improve your health. Instead of trying to overhaul your entire diet or committing to an intense workout schedule, start with micro actions:
- Drink one extra glass of water today.
- Add a handful of greens to your lunch.
- Go for a 10-minute walk.
If you dream of writing a book, don’t wait for the perfect moment when you have hours of uninterrupted time. Write for just five minutes today.
Want to boost your confidence? Take one small, brave step—speak up in a meeting, introduce yourself to someone new, or simply hold eye contact a little longer than usual.
Why does this work?
Because small actions build momentum. They reinforce your identity, signaling to your brain: "This is who I am now."
...and that’s where transformation begins.
Use a Habit Tracker to remind you and to measure your progress. Giving you a physical representation of your daily progress.
Break Free from the “Some day” Mindset
We’ve all been there—telling ourselves we’ll start on Monday, next month, or when life gets less busy. But here’s the truth:
Some day isn’t a day on the calendar.
The only time you have control over is now.
Challenge yourself:
What’s one thing you can do today to move closer to your dream life?
It could be as simple as:
- Deciding on a business name.
- Registering a domain.
- Writing the first line of your book.
- Going for that quick walk you’ve been postponing.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be something.
Rewire Your Identity
Here’s where things get really powerful. Instead of thinking, “I have to force myself to do this,” shift your mindset to:
“This is who I am now.”
If you want to be a writer, don’t say, “I need to make time to write.”
Say, “I am a writer. Writers write.”
If you want to be fit, don’t say, “I need to start exercising.”
Say, “I am someone who prioritizes my health. Moving my body is part of who I am.”
When you identify with the version of yourself you aspire to be, your actions naturally align with that identity. You feel that identity.
It becomes less about motivation and more about simply living in alignment with who you are.
Celebrate Your Daily Wins
Success isn’t about one grand gesture—it’s about the consistent, intentional steps you take each day. That’s why celebrating small wins is so important.
Before you go to bed tonight, write down:
- One thing you did today that moved you closer to your dream life.
- One thing you’re grateful for.
- One small action you’ll take tomorrow.
These reflections build positive momentum. They remind you that you are making progress, even if the steps feel small. Over time, these tiny actions create massive change.
You can use this beautiful Daily Wins journal we've created just for that purpose...
Key Takeaways...
- Your future self is already within you. Visualize who you want to be and identify actions that align with that version of you.
- Small actions lead to big results. Start with micro steps to build momentum and confidence.
- Take action today. Stop waiting for the perfect moment—it doesn’t exist.
- Shift your identity. Act as if you’re already the person you want to become.
- Celebrate your progress. Acknowledge your daily wins to stay motivated and inspired.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If this resonates with you, I’d love to invite you to join us in the Dream Life Coaching Program.
At the time of writing we’re focusing on stepping into your future self—aligning your actions with your dreams and becoming the person you’re meant to be.
You don’t have to do this alone. Surrounding yourself with like-minded dreamers will inspire, support, and accelerate your growth.
Let’s do this together. 💛
Join the Dream Life Coaching Program here.
Until next time, keep dreaming, keep doing, and remember—you’re capable of more than you think.

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