Time Will Pass Anyway

We’ve all had that thought: “I’ll start when things settle down. I’ll chase that goal when I’m more ready. ”But here’s the hard truth—life rarely “settles down.” And while we wait for the perfect time, the weeks, months, and years keep moving forward. Whether you start or not, the time will pass.

The difference? Who you’ll be at the end of it.

The Science of Mindset

Psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset shows that people who believe they can improve through effort are far more likely to achieve lasting success than those who think abilities are fixed. In one study, students taught about growth mindset not only improved their grades, but also showed more resilience when facing challenges.

It’s not just talent—it’s belief and persistence. The ability to say: “I’m not there yet, but I can get there if I keep going.”

Determination is the X-Factor

Angela Duckworth’s famous work on grit (a mix of passion and perseverance) found that grit, more than IQ or raw talent, predicted who would stick with tough programs like West Point’s military training. In other words—it wasn’t the smartest or the strongest who succeeded. It was the ones who refused to quit.

That same grit is available to you right now. Every time you push through doubt, rejection, or fatigue, you’re building it.

So What Does This Mean for You?

If you’ve been holding back—waiting for the perfect time to start that business, go back to school, get in shape, write that book, or pursue the life you’ve been imagining—let this be your reminder: the clock doesn’t wait.

Five years from now, you’ll either look back proud of the steps you took, or regret the chances you let slip by. The time will pass either way.

So why not use it to build something? Why not bet on yourself?

A Challenge for You

Take one small action this week toward the dream you keep putting off. Not next year, not when things calm down—this week. One phone call. One email. One workout. One page written.

Momentum builds in small steps. And once it does, you’ll thank yourself that you started today.

Because remember—the time will pass no matter what. It’s up to you to decide what you’ll have to show for it.