Have you ever felt stuck, dreaming of a better life but unsure how to make it happen? Maybe you want a new job, stronger relationships, or just a sense of purpose—but something holds you back. The good news? Success doesn’t require complicated plans or endless resources. It’s about following a few simple, powerful rules that anyone can apply.

In this post, we’ll explore three life-changing rules to help you succeed in every area of life—personal, professional, and relational:

1. If you don’t go after what you want, you will never have it.
2. If you don’t ask for what you want, the answer will always be NO.
3. If you don’t step forward, you will always be in the same place forever.

These rules are your roadmap to growth, inspired by timeless wisdom and backed by practical steps. Let’s dive into each one, see why it matters, and learn how to make it work for you.

Rule 1: Chase Your Dreams, or They’ll Stay Dreams

The first rule is simple but profound: If you don’t go after what you want, you will never have it. Dreams don’t magically come true—you have to chase them. Whether it’s a new career, a healthier body, or a passion project, success starts with action.

Why do so many people hesitate? Fear of failure, self-doubt, or even not knowing where to start can keep us stuck. But here’s the truth: every successful person began with a single step, even when they weren’t sure it would work.

Take Sarah, for example. She spent years in a dead-end office job, dreaming of starting her own bakery. The idea thrilled her, but fear of failure kept her from acting. One day, she decided enough was enough. She enrolled in a baking course, started selling cupcakes on weekends, and slowly built a customer base. Today, Sarah runs a thriving bakery. Her secret? She went after what she wanted, one small step at a time.

How to Apply This Rule – Ready to chase your dreams? Here’s how to start:

a. Identify Your Goal: Pick one thing you want—maybe a promotion, a fitness milestone, or learning a new skill.

b. Break It Down: Big goals can feel overwhelming. Split yours into small steps. For example, if you want a new job, start by updating your resume or researching companies.

c. Take Action Weekly: Commit to one action per week, like signing up for a class or reaching out to a mentor. Small steps build momentum.

As Lao Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Don’t wait for the perfect moment—start now. But chasing your dreams is only half the battle. Sometimes, you need to ask for what you want to make it happen.

Rule 2: Ask For What You Want

The second rule is a game-changer: If you don’t ask for what you want, the answer will always be NO. Opportunities rarely fall into your lap. Whether it’s a raise, a date, or help from a friend, you have to speak up to get what you need.

Why is asking so hard? Many of us fear rejection or worry we’ll seem pushy. But staying silent guarantees you’ll miss out. The most successful people aren’t afraid to ask—they know “no” is just a step toward “yes.”

My friend Mark, a graphic designer who felt underpaid but was nervous to ask for a raise. He spent months stressing, assuming his boss would notice his hard work. Finally, he worked up the courage to ask, preparing a list of his contributions. To his surprise, his boss agreed and gave him a 15% raise. Mark’s story shows that asking can open doors you thought were locked.

How to Apply Rule – Want to start asking for what you want? Try these steps:

a. Clarify Your Ask: Be specific about what you need—a promotion, feedback, or even a coffee date.

b. Practice First: Write down your request or rehearse it with a friend to build confidence.

c. Make the Ask: Approach the conversation respectfully but directly. Accept that “no” is okay—it’s not personal.

Wayne Gretzky famously said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Every time you ask, you’re taking a shot at success. Asking is powerful, but to keep growing, you need to keep moving forward, which brings us to the final rule.

Rule 3: Take the Leap, or Stay Stuck

The third rule is about progress: If you don’t step forward, you will always be in the same place forever. Life rewards those who move out of their comfort zones. Staying in the same routine might feel safe, but it keeps you stuck.

Why do we resist stepping forward? Fear of the unknown or love for familiarity can hold us back. But growth happens when we embrace change, even if it’s scary.

Take Lisa, who lived in the same small town her whole life. She loved her community but felt unfulfilled. One day, she applied for a job in a nearby city, despite her fears of starting over. The move was tough at first, but it led to new friendships, a better career, and a sense of adventure. By stepping forward, Lisa transformed her life.

How to Apply Rule – Ready to move forward? Here’s how:

a. Spot Your Stuck Point: Where do you feel stagnant—your job, relationships, or personal growth?

b. Choose a Small Step: Pick one action outside your comfort zone, like joining a club, taking a class, or trying a new hobby.

c. Reflect and Repeat: After taking the step, reflect on what you learned. Use that confidence to take bigger leaps.

As Neale Donald Walsch said, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life you want.

Putting It All Together

These three rules—go after what you want, ask for what you want, and step forward—work together to create a life of growth and success. They’re simple but not always easy. The key is to start small and stay consistent.

Imagine where you could be in a year if you applied these rules today.

Want a better job? Start researching and networking (Rule 1), ask for opportunities (Rule 2), and take a bold step like applying or interviewing (Rule 3).

Want stronger relationships? Pursue meaningful connections (Rule 1), express your needs (Rule 2), and try new ways to connect, like joining a group (Rule 3).

Your Next Step

Success isn’t about luck—it’s about action, courage, and progress. Pick one rule and take action today. Maybe it’s signing up for that course you’ve been eyeing, asking a colleague for feedback, or stepping out of your routine to try something new. Whatever it is, start now.

Which rule resonates with you most? Share your story in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you’re applying these rules to succeed in your life. Let’s inspire each other to keep moving forward!