Have you ever thought about what separates the dreamers from the doers? The difference can be summed up with one word: motivation.

Consistent action, of course, is what turns dreams into reality, but you’ve got to be internally (or sometimes externally) motivated to take that action.

External motivation is rarely as effective as internal motivation, which makes sense. It’s the difference between someone trying to get you to do something, and you having a strong desire to do something. Motivation can be hard to sustain over the long haul, but it’s worth it when you do.

How to develop internal motivation is the million dollar question. Some people are naturally more motivated than others, but if you’ve got a dream and you’d like to become motivated to actually make it happen, there are some things you can try.

Look for the emotions behind your dream. What would it feel like to have it become reality? Would you be happier? Less stressed out? Thrilled? What would it mean, deep down inside?

Think about the surface changes too, and how those would impact your life. Going from living paycheck to paycheck to being in great financial shape, for example, means a much more pleasant life — one that includes some indulgences. Go ahead and imagine what those would be like to have too.

Focusing on the results — both emotional and otherwise — of what you dream of doing can be a powerful motivator, especially if you do so for a few minutes each day.

Participating in challenges or sharing your progress with others who have similar dreams can help too. I know I feel much more motivated to do things when I talk about them here. It’s great to be cheered on along the way, too.

Keep motivated and focused on the results of your dreams, and you’ll turn them into reality — one step at a time.