“Actions speak louder than words.”

“Say what you mean and mean what you say.”

Each of these phrases indicate that overpromising and underdelivering are chronic problems for both individuals and institutions.

Ralph Waldo Emerson, a 19th century American poet, put it this way, “What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”

Even Jesus spoke on the importance of action. Two thousand years ago he told a parable clarifying that our actions, not our intentions, are the best indicator of our true beliefs (Matthew 21:28-32).

It’s okay to think, but eventually, act. It’s okay to wait, but eventually, act. It’s okay to plan, but eventually, act. Sooner or later, Orville and Wilbur Wright had to jump in the plane and fly it. Dreams, ideas, and plans can’t stay in the incubator forever.

Having good intentions is not enough, because eventually, we become what we DO. Act courageous enough times, and you become courageous. Act with kindness enough times, and you become kind. Quit enough times, and you become a quitter.

Whether we like it or not, inaction is an action; indecision is a decision.

We are what we DO not what we SAY.

Take a listen to this week’s podcast as author and consultant, Dwaine Canova, implores us to be individuals and organizations who implement our dreams and visions. Perhaps, take a few moments to ask yourself this question, “Are there places in my life where I am saying ‘yes’ but doing ‘no’?”

Don’t let later become never. Start today!