5 Steps to Living Your Dream

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So here you are in January, with 12 months ahead of you.  Another opportunity for a fresh start. An opportunity to go within and ask, “what do I really want for my life in 2014?” Sure, you can do it anytime.  But there is something magical about the beginning of the year to dream, plan and act.
Make this year the year for you. Focus on what can be.  Define your destination, develop a roadmap and take to the road!
Below are key steps to creating a year that brings you fulfillment and satisfaction. Find a quiet space that you’ll have at least one hour to yourself.  Do these in chunks if necessary (but maintain the momentum and resolve to finish by end of January).
 
1)     What fulfills me?
▪    Review your 2013. What were the highs and lows? Be specific.
▪    Based on the review, identify the elements for a fulfilling and satisfying 2014.
 
2) Develop a “Dream Vision for 2014″
▪    After you’ve done the above, allow yourself to be in a place of quiet calm.
▪    Now take the elements you identified above and imagine your life with those elements.  Be specific. See it, feel it, smell it.  Take a picture of it in your mind.
▪    Draw that picture.  This is not an art class so don’t judge your drawing.  The objective is to capture your vision on paper.
▪    Now describe it in words and write it down. Writing down is key!
 
3) Create a Plan
▪    Look at the picture and list the major actions you can take to make that a reality.  Even if it’s a far stretch, breakdown the goal into smaller chunks.
▪    Create processes that allow chunks of achievement, big or small.  Start with a simple process.  When you’ve accomplished a little, celebrate.  Then set another near term goal and celebrate when you reach another milestone.
 
4) Take Action
▪    For many of you, taking action may be the most challenging.  Sustaining action towards your vision can be even more challenging.  However, if you keep your vision clear (posted on the wall), and celebrate every increment of change and progress, you’ll feel more effective and will  more likely  keep going.
▪    Remember that pursuing your dream is a form of change.  Change can feel threatening, even if we want the outcome.  Just know that resistance is natural.  It’ll help you approach your “bumps in the road” with greater compassion.
 
5) Find Support
▪    Find people who are your cheerleaders.  Share your vision with a select few.  Allow them to make you accountable for your progress.  Allow them to encourage you.  When you feel down, seek them out for further support and encouragement.
Dreaming is an act of faith and courage.  Making dreams come true is about perseverance and passion.  2014 will be here only once.  And then like 2013, it will be gone.  Make it count.