So
how do we know what our dreams are? This is an interesting
process, and it relates primarily to the art of listening. This
is not listening to others; it is listening to yourself. If we
listen to others, we hear their plans and dreams (and many will
try to put their plans and dreams on us). If we listen to
others, we can never be fulfilled; we will only chase elusive
dreams that are not rooted deep within us. No, we must listen to
our own hearts.
Let’s
take a look at some practical steps/thoughts on hearing from our
hearts on what our dreams are:
Take
time to be quiet. This is something that we don’t do enough in
this busy world of ours. We rush, rush, rush, and we are
constantly listening to noise all around us. The human heart was
meant for times of quiet, to peer deep within. It is when we do
this that our hearts are set free to soar and take flight on the
wings of our own dreams! Schedule some quiet “dream time”
this week. No other people. No cell phone. No computer. Just
you, a pad, a pen and your thoughts.
Think
about what really thrills you. When you are quiet, think about
those things that really get your blood moving. What would you love
to do, either for fun or for a living? What would you love to
accomplish? What would you try if you were guaranteed to
succeed? What big thoughts move your heart into a state of
excitement and joy? When you answer these questions, you will
feel great and you will be in the “dream zone.” It is only
when we get to this point that we experience what our dreams
are!
Write
down all of your dreams as you have them. Don’t think of any
as too outlandish or foolish. Remember, you’re dreaming! Let
the thoughts fly and take careful record.
Now,
prioritize those dreams. Which are most important? Which are
most feasible? Which would you love to do the most? Put them in
the order in which you will actually try to attain them.
Remember, we are always moving toward action, not just dreaming.
Here
is the big picture: Life is too short not to pursue your dreams.
Someday, your life will near its end, and all you will be able
to do is look backward. You can reflect with joy or regret.
Those who dream, who set goals and act on them to live out their
dreams, are those who live lives of joy and who have a sense of
peace when they near the end of their lives. They have finished
well, for themselves and for their families.
Remember:
These are the dreams and goals that are born out of your heart
and mind. These are the goals unique to you and that come from
who you were created to be and gifted to become. Your specific
goals are what you want to attain, because they are what will
make your life joyful and bring your family’s life into
congruence with what you want it to be.
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