When your self-esteem begins to rise, you realize you have options. Suddenly, your future is no longer bleak and depressing. It is exciting and filled with new opportunities and experiences. Rather than dreading the future, you begin anticipating it. So, what is next? How do you get from where you are today to that bright, shiny future that you were looking forward to enjoying?
It is time to dream a dream.
Start by dreaming. What is it that you want to do? Try to think about what you’d like your life to look like if money and time weren’t factors. Would you take dance classes? Would you start your own business? Embrace your inner artist? Maybe travel across the country in an RV?
You can’t work toward your dreams until you’ve identified them. It’s OK to have multiple goals. Most people are multi-passionate.
What does your future self want to accomplish?
It’s time to figure out what you want to accomplish. It isn’t about titles or money or fame. It’s about how you want people to remember you. How will you leave your mark on the world?
Do you want to be remembered for being that sassy businesswoman that provided clean drinking water for an entire village in a third world country? Do you want to be recognized as the artist and foster mom of countless teens that didn’t have a place to go? Do you want to be the secretary that decided to go to medical school at age fifty?
What do you see as the major roadblock to making that happen?
Anticipating roadblocks ahead of time can be helpful. Common barriers might include time, money, or a lack of emotional support. You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Just acknowledge the roadblocks. By doing this, you’ll prepare yourself mentally and emotionally when you encounter setbacks or problems along the way.
What does your life look like when that road back is in your rear mirror?
No matter who you are or what you’re trying to achieve, you will encounter roadblocks. To prevail over them, you have to have a clear vision of your future. This vision has to be strong enough to motivate you when you’re still living your ‘before’ story. If your goal is to go back to college, then imagine that moment when you walk across the stage in your graduation gown. If your goal is to start a business, imagine that moment when you get your first client. Hold onto your vision.
Dreaming about your future and planning for it can be exciting. It can also feel a little scary at times. But don’t let the fear stop you. You deserve a beautiful future filled with dreams.
Until next, keep the faith and stay safe. lw
