Reviving the American Dream: A Call to Action for Every Citizen

Editor’s note: The following op-ed is adapted from author Doug DeVos’s new book, “Believe! A Timeless Endorsement of American Principles” (50th Anniversary Edition), (Post Hill Press, Nov. 25, 2025).

Is America poised for a remarkable resurgence? Or is the nation on a downward trajectory?

As the country gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, these questions are dominating discussions. It seems everyone is contemplating the future and past of America.

For the first time in history, less than half of Americans express optimism about their nation’s future. A troubling trend shows that many believe better days lie behind us. Four out of five individuals now think their children will face a tougher life than they did, a perspective that has doubled in just two decades. Long-term, concerns about future generations seem even more pronounced, with more Americans fearing that those born in the coming years will face greater hardships than those from the past.

But is this perspective accurate? Is America truly in decline? After much reflection, I firmly assert that the answer is a loud and clear no!

We are not declining; rather, we are drifting. This distinction is critical. The core principles that established the American experience seem to be fading. Instead of feeling anchored to these values, we appear to be tossed about, swayed by prevailing currents. While drifting away from our ideals does not equate to outright decline, it poses significant risks. America was built to forge ahead, empowering its citizens and guiding global progress.

Let us be unequivocal: America still reigns as one of the strongest nations worldwide based on numerous metrics. However, we are not progressing toward the destiny we envision for ourselves. Fortunately, there is a pathway to redirect our nation. A revival hinges on reconnecting with our identity and values, using the principles that propelled us to greatness.

Foundational Principles of the American Dream

What are these timeless principles? They include belief in individual potential, the vitality of free enterprise, the importance of family, accountability, and human dignity. Throughout history, generations of Americans have leaned on these principles to navigate challenges and bridge divides. Now, we must embrace them once more.

Your Role in America’s Future

Waiting for others to safeguard America is not a viable solution. Politicians, while critical, cannot shoulder this responsibility alone. The real catalysts for change lie within each one of us, the citizens. This realization may feel overwhelming, but it carries immense power. Each citizen’s actions and beliefs directly impact our national trajectory.

The mindset we adopt shapes our reality. If you envision a bleak future, your actions will reflect that belief. You may find yourself striving less and seeking to gain more than you contribute, adopting a mindset that reinforces negativity.

Conversely, when you nurture an optimistic vision for the future, your response shifts dramatically. Instead of passively accepting challenges, you become proactive, seeking solutions rather than despairing in difficulties. You refuse to settle for the status quo, instead actively working to carve out a better path.

The Stakes Are High

The potential cost of inaction is significant. If we continue to drift without purpose, we may risk slipping into a state of genuine decline. However, if we rise to the challenge and apply the enduring principles that encapsulate the best of our heritage, America can regain its sense of direction.

We possess all the necessary tools to make progress, primarily because of the remarkable citizens that form our nation. We are a nation characterized by creativity and entrepreneurship. Our economy remains a beacon of hope globally. Countless individuals aspire to experience life in the land of the free and the home of the brave. America’s story is one of continuous improvement, driven by everyday citizens taking meaningful action.

This approach has guided us through innumerable struggles. We have confronted abhorrent practices like slavery, advocated for civil rights and women’s rights, and tirelessly worked to extend genuine opportunities for all to succeed. Each generation has sought to strengthen our union. While we have not yet achieved perfection, our collective belief in progress fuels our determination to continue pursuing it.

A Call to Action

You are presented with a unique opportunity. Transform your future, uplift your community, and revitalize our nation. By reviving the American Dream, you position yourself to achieve extraordinary success while helping others along their journeys. This is your moment to demonstrate that America’s time of drifting is over. Stand firm in the principles that laid the foundation of our nation, and a bright future awaits.