Dream Big

Our lives are only limited by our ability to dream. To dream big is to believe that all things are possible- that faith and perseverance will see us through. We all have the ability to dream, why not dream big?

I’ve been a counselor for many years now and the one question that I repeatedly ask all my clients is, “What are your dreams-If you could have anything you want in life or have the life of your dreams without limitations, what would that look like?” I am always amazed by the responses. The majority of those to whom I pose this question generally come back with an answer like, “I just want a steady job and a house of my own.”

There is nothing wrong with wanting a simple life or simple things in life. But these are basic things that we all need and not things dreams are made of. I think a lot of people don’t realize the power of dreams or don’t give themselves the permission to dream, and especially to dream big.

 Many of us have grown up being told what we need to do in life- go to school, get a job, buy a house, get married and have 1.2 kids, retire then die. These are all fine things to do in life, but what about you’re desires, your passions; your dreams?

One of the greatest gifts we have as human beings is the gift of choice. We can choose to do, say, think, or be whatever we want. Though, all choice comes with consequence whether that consequence is positive or negative. We are also accountable for all of our choices as well as our behaviors, just as we are accountable for the quality of our lives.

If we are unhappy with our weight we have the ability; the choice to change that. If we do not like our jobs, we can find a new one. These are all choices. This does not mean that change or our choices will be easy. Most change or choices require great effort on our behalf. Though, is it not worth it to be happy and to get what we want out of life?

All accomplishments require action. All great people who have accomplished great things have one thing in common- the ability to dream big- that is the cusp; the forefront of change and greatness. We are all great. Sometimes we just forget to realize this and acknowledge our ability to acquire whatever we want in life.

We have to change the way think about things, to get beyond what we have been told and to follow our own desires. Many people; family and friends may doubt us or say that we are crazy or that’s not possible- nothing is impossible! People laugh at those who dream big because of their own insecurities. They are comfortable with things as they are and intimidated by change. The old saying, “Misery loves company” is true.

This does not mean that our loved ones don’t have good intentions for us, they generally do. But they are scared. They are scared and uncomfortable because they believe that dreaming big has the potential for failure and no one likes to fail. Though, we only fail when we give up on ourselves and our dreams.

 Over the years I have started several small online businesses and each time I have lost several thousands of dollars and pulled out of those businesses. Some may see this as a failed venture, though I see it as a learning experience and I continue to push forward with my dreams.

Not all dreams are attached to physical items such as material possessions or wealth. My greatest dream in life is one of personal development. My dream is to be a loving and compassionate person. To look at others without judgment and to treat others as if they were my relative (we are all related). I want to help others through whatever acts of truth that I am capable of- feed those who come across my path that are hungry- be a shoulder to cry on- be a friend- be a member of the global community.

This is not an easy dream to realize. This requires much work and a conscious effort on my part. Though, this is my dream so I am motivated by it and will put forth the effort to work on myself that I may be of service to others.

Take time to sit with yourself and evaluate your life. Think about dreams you had as a kid or dreams that you may have now but don’t think they are possible to achieve. If you did not or are not pursuing your dreams, ask yourself why not. What do you have to lose? Now think about a particular dream or goal and consider what it would take to accomplish or realize that dream. Break that dream down into steps or benchmarks. Put this stuff down on paper! Are you getting excited? Because, what you have put down on paper is possible. It’s possible because it’s your dream. It’s possible if you are willing to put forth the work needed to realize this dream. It’s possible if you have utter faith in yourself and the perseverance to see it through and not give up.

Don’t be afraid to have a dream. Don’t be afraid to fail- there’s no such thing. What you consider a failure is a learning experience; an opportunity to try harder and realize your dream. All dreams require action. So, remember, put your best foot forward and have faith in yourself- and if all else fails…Dream Big!