"So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable." - Christopher Reeve

There is a voice inside each one of us that says, "dream big and reach for the stars." That voice encourages us to do things we never thought possible, but there is also a fear in each of us that buries those dreams inside a deep, deep hole. It is a fear that says, "you aren't good enough, you better not even try." That fear shouldn't control our lives. No matter what your dream is, if you are willing to do what it takes, it can come true. Keep these eight things in mind to make it happen:

1. Have a dream

Right?! It seems simple, but so many of us let fear keep us from ever forming a dream. Ponder your life and your desires, then pick a dream and don't be scared to make it known. Tell everyone about it. Shout it from the rooftops. Devote a piece of your heart to your dream and give it life.

2. Take action

Once you have a dream, don't let it go to waste; do something about it. A dream is usually a great idea, but the only way it becomes more than that is to make a plan. Take baby steps to get you started, then run through life with your dreams tailing behind you.

3. Be patient

Great things don't happen overnight, so be patient with your dream. If things seem to be falling through, then find a different (probably better) way to get them done. Use the little setbacks to make yourself better and to get one step closer to making your dreams a reality.

4. Be persistent

Never, ever, ever, ever give up on your dreams. When your dream feels wrong, then reevaluate your dreams, priorities and desires. If you realize that your dream is not for you, then change it. But if it still feels right, vow to never give up. Go for it no matter what.

5. Be willing to fail

I know, I hate this one too. We all know failure is a necessary part of life, but that doesn't mean we have to like it. Embrace the failure. The moment may seem to last forever, but it will pass and you will find yourself on the right path because of it. You don't have to love failing, but stop avoiding it.

6. Have more faith than fear

We have already talked a lot about fear. We know it exists and we often let it rule our lives and decisions. But when we let faith rule our lives instead, we will come out on top. Faith in the future, faith in your dreams and faith in God will help you to overcome your fears and press forward no matter what.

7. Accept criticism

This also sounds kind of horrible, but the ability to accept constructive criticism will get you far in achieving your dreams. Let the haters hate and don't pay them any mind, but those who love you and know you will try to help. Listen to what they have to say, take it into consideration and then use it to broaden your perspective and find the best approach to doing hard things.

8. Never give up

We already talked about this, but it is important enough to say again. Please, don't ever give up.

Whether your dream is big or small, whether it takes a year to achieve or a lifetime, keep at it. Life will try to get you down, but don't let it. Any dream is achievable and all dreams can come true as long as you have faith, work hard, stay patient and, above all else, never give up. So, dream on my fellow dreamers; let's do this!