DAY 2: What Do You Really Want?

This week I had a chat with a dear friend. She was reading a self help book, and diligently doing the exercises to find out what she’s really passionate about. Here’s what’s interesting. I’ve known this woman for five years and every time we meet, she lights up when she talks about her classes & her craft.

So, I said, “Sue, I’m a bit confused. I’ve heard you tell me dozens of times what you really love. Am I mistaken ... but I thought that's what you really wanted?”

Her response: “No. That is what I really love! But if I can’t have this, I want find out what I else I can have. As we talked more, it became clear. By trying to imagine a safe second choice, before she's fully pursued her true passion, her dream felt hollow and, well not worth pursuing.

Within minutes, she said "You're right! Ever since the first class I taught, I knew this is what I wanted. But I'm stuck. I know my beliefs are getting in my way. Plus, everyone is suggesting I do production work and that just doesn't align with my values."

I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t have a dream. But I continually meet people very much like Sue, who either struggle with their beliefs or don’t have a structure to succeed … or both.

Today, right now-- write your dream -- you know, the one that you try to keep tamped down, but won't be silenced. Write it down as the ‘camera’ would see it. Remember, it might be personal or professional.

As you write, note all the thoughts that come up as you think about it.

EXAMPLE: Dream 1:
Dream: To facilitate groups of college students confused about their career.
Thoughts: I believe there is no money for this work .
Thoughts: I love teens... they are our future.
Thoughts: Every time I work with teens, I get tons of emails from them and their parents, I love it more and more.

EXAMPLE: Dream 2:
Dream: To work with people in career transition to hone their focus. Thoughts: Do I need to go back to school?. Thoughts: People really need to have a clear focus in these times, I love helping people focus. Thoughts: My colleagues always say that they get so much from our conversations ... I'd love to make a living at it?

And the 30 day journey begins.
What are 5 dreams you have that won't be dismissed... no matter how hard you try? Remember to include your thoughts about them.

As you go about your day you might find you have more thoughts. Success begin by getting real with yourself and your dream, so don't be surprised if you find yourself mulling over your thoughts today.

After you write your 5 step back and ask yourself, what do they have in common? You might even ask a couple of friends.