Burn the Ships

There comes a moment in every journey where you must make a choice—stick with the comfort of the known, or blaze forward with no safety net, fully committed to reaching your goal. To achieve our dreams, sometimes we have to eliminate the way back. It’s not about burning bridges, but about burning ships. Why? Because those ships, those easy exits, are what keep us anchored in old, comfortable habits that hold us back.

Think of Hernando Cortez, the Spanish Conquistador who, upon landing in Mexico, ordered his men to burn the ships. Cortez had a mission and knew that leaving an escape route would only make it easier for his crew to retreat when the going got tough. The only direction left was forward. He turned his men’s focus entirely on making the mission succeed. There was no longer a Plan B. For Cortez and his men, it was all or nothing.

This level of commitment is what sets apart those who merely dream from those who achieve. When we remove our escape routes, we create a compelling reason to go all in. But there’s wisdom in this approach. Cortez may have burned the ships, but he didn’t burn the food and supplies. Similarly, when you’re ready to “burn the ships,” be smart. Closing off an exit doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind. You still need a well-thought-out plan, tools, and resources to help you press on.

I’m not suggesting you quit your job tomorrow without a backup, nor to drain your bank account. That’s not burning ships; that’s creating unnecessary stress. Instead, think of ways you can prepare yourself for the journey. If you’re ready to leave a job that no longer serves you, consider building a savings buffer, starting a side hustle, or finding a “journey job” that supports your long-term goals. This is how you manage the risk while still taking a bold step forward.

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate risk; it’s to be wise about it. When you’re ready to go after that goal with every ounce of energy, courage, and commitment—burn the ships. But do so with your supplies intact and a solid plan in place.

As you reflect on your own journey, ask yourself: What ships are holding you back? What’s your next step to move forward, fully committed, with no easy way to turn back? Remember, success often requires bold choices and a fearless spirit.

So, will you burn the ships that keep you anchored in the familiar, and set your sights on what’s possible? Share in the comments—what action are you ready to take today?

In your corner,

Coach Dane