“Dreams don’t work unless you do”

“Dreams don’t work unless you do” is a popular motivational saying that has been printed on many posters. The saying has been cited in print since at least 1998 and is of unknown authorship. The author John C. Maxwell is often given credit for the saying, but it’s not certain that he said it before his book, Dare to Dream…then Do It: What Successful People Know And Do (2006).
 
The saying possibly first appeared in the book God’s Little Instruction Book for the Workplace (1995)—Google Books does not allow a view of the pages.
 
   
Google Books
I could have quit $10,000,000.00 ago:
Proof—nice guys do finish first!
How Dayle Maloney and friends climbed to success in network marketing

By Lori Prokop
[S.l.] : Williams & Wilson International Press
1998
Pg. 293:
Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do.
 
22 March 2001, Midland (TX) Reporter-Telegram, “Future bill may lead to crack down on charter schools” by Danielle Belton:
In the main office, little signs hang telling students daily affirmations.
 
Phrases like “Clear your mind of can’t,” “Dreams don’t work unless you do” and “People may doubt what you say but they will believe what you do” line the boarder behind the secretary’s desk.
     
SuccessVibe—Success and Motivation Forums
David
10-13-2004, 04:00 PM
(...) 
“If I were to name the most important ingredient in achievement and success, it would have to be vision. The Bible goes even further, saying, ‘Without vision, the people perish.’ Do not allow anyone to destroy your dreams. But, remember that dreams don’t work unless you do.”
 
Google Books
Why, God, Why?:
What to Do When Life Doesn’t Make Sense

By Karen Jensen
Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House
2013
Pg. 149:
Christian author and motivational speaker John C. Maxwell once said, “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”
 
Creative Design
Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do
This entry was posted on July 14, 2013 by dmmosher.
This was taken at a New York Pizza restaurant in Salem, OR. Everyone can write what they want all over the walls there or read the newspaper sections clipped along the railing while they eat. Fantastic food and interesting reads!