As we round the corner toward the end of the year, a lot of us recognize these final months as an opportunity for reflection. A little thoughtfulness and contemplation, we know, can lead to growth, growth can lead to progress, and progress, ideally, can lead to success in some form.
While many of us already practice self-examination, standing at the threshold of another year is an invitation to choose greater introspection and quiet. As the days grow shorter and the nights become darker, we can take a longer, deeper look at ourselves and our reality.
This time offers us a chance to contemplate what’s happened over the last several months (what worked and what didn’t) and to look forward and get excited about what’s next and new. It’s time to start dreaming: What are you envisioning? What energizes you? What are you curious about?
Our dreams are an expression of who we are: manifestations of our potential to be, do, and achieve. Every dream is unique to us, representing something only we could give the world. That idea is humbling — and incredibly motivating.
Deciding to actually follow a dream is, at its core, an act of faith combined with determination and a willingness to put in the work. As the only one who can bring your specific dream to fruition, it’s up to you to forge the path forward.
So, how do you make a dream a reality? I believe it begins with a few simple strategies, starting with knowing yourself.
- Take time to reflect — on who you are, your purpose, and what makes you tick. What are your values? What’s your why?
- Consider your dream and define exactly what you want to achieve. How does it align with your purpose? What does success look like? How will it feel once you reach it?
- Get specific and break your big idea down into small, workable parts — clear and concise goals that align with your vision.
- Visualize the steps and milestones necessary to reach your goal — and believe in your ability to arrive at each one and keep going, even if it takes some trial and error; even if it takes longer than you originally thought it would.
- Share your ambition: Take it out of your head and say it out loud. Tell your friends, who can help hold you accountable.
When you’re pursuing a dream that you believe in, the real fun often comes before it’s actualized. The journey is as rewarding as the destination. It feels good to jump out of bed and get to work; you have the energy and can-do attitude to problem solve and handle whatever comes your way.
It’s in the process that your passion is validated, your courage is kindled, and your vision and values become crystallized. And with each box you check on the path of progress, you encounter new opportunities and challenges, so you’re constantly iterating, adapting, and learning.
That’s what makes dreams so important: They connect us with our deepest desires and passions while helping us grow. They provide hope and optimism — along with something to look forward to.
Without dreams, it’s easy to get bogged down in the mundane and lose sight of what’s truly important in life. So, this season, I encourage you not only to reflect but also to dream. Remember who you are and what matters to you. Reconnect with what you’d like to accomplish.
Take care of yourself, prioritizing your health and building the vitality you need to pursue your goals with confidence and vigor.
It’s never too late to start, to change course, or to go back to the things that light you up. May you recognize what takes you buoyantly forward, and enjoy the fulfillment of your dreams along the way.
