Have a strong desire.
If you would merely like something, as opposed to want it so badly you can feel it or taste it, you are less likely to achieve your dream. The people who get their dreams are the ones who have a deep yearning for their dream and will in turn go to great lengths and make sacrifices to get their dreams. Without a strong desire to get your dreams, you won't put in as much effort and will be less likely to get it.

Make a plan.
You can't reach your dreams if you don't have a plan of action in place to make it happen. Without that, you won't have a clear direction of how to accomplish your dreams. Your plan should include a number of small goals that will eventually lead to your dream. For example, if you have a dream of writing a book, your small goals could include writing an outline, finishing a certain number of pages or chapters each month, and so forth until you have a final date to be done in mind. A concrete plan will give you something specific to move towards and a way to get there.

Make sure you write it down as well. Many people believe that writing your goals down is the first step towards making a dream happen and well as making a real, visible commitment.

Visualize your success.
One of the most powerful motivators to achieving your dreams is to visualize your success or how your life will be once you get your dream. For example, if it is your dream to graduate college, picture yourself walking in commencement in your cap and gown and accepting your diploma. Think of how you will feel at that moment. Or, if it is your dream to run a marathon, imagine what it will feel like when you cross the finish line. Picture yourself achieving your dream and revisit it whenever you feel frustrated or discouraged. It will give you the push you need towards achieving your dream.

Keep track of your progress.
You should track your progress and be accountable for it. Take notes in a journal, day planner, or PDA. Write your reminders down so you know when your upcoming deadlines are for achieving your goals.

Be prepared for setbacks.
There is of course a chance you will miss a goal or two, or find that your progression towards your dream is taking longer than you had hoped. You can better overcome these setbacks by preparing for them and not letting them get you down. Anticipating setbacks and having a plan already in place to overcome them will help you to get through them quicker and without feeling too down about it.

Believe in yourself.
It's natural to get discouraged every now and then and think to yourself, "I'm never going to get this." But this kind of pessimism and negative self talk will be the only thing keeping you from achieving your dreams. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and surround yourself with positive, encouraging people and you are sure to get your dreams.