It means that your body is beginning to get ready for labor. But it doesn't mean that you will have the baby immediately. Remember that normal term is anywhere from 38 - 42 weeks, with 40 as the average. So you need about another 2 1/2 weeks and you're there.
Follow your doctor's instructions and do take things easy to keep baby in there for a few more weeks.
A soft cervix is a good thing. You won't dialate if your cervix doesn't soften.