We all have dreams. Some of us are pursuing our dreams, others hold them deep inside not wanting to let them go, but are too afraid, too busy, too .... (you fill in the blank ______ ) to pursue them. Yesterday I met a gentleman who reminded me that there are tens of thousands, if not millions and millions of people who have dreams and are diligently working on them as I write these words.
I'm painting my house in the fall and am in the process of obtaining bids - that's how I met the 'dreamer' that I'm talking about. He's a former marine, a Vietnam veteran, an educated man, a 'thinker' who has done many things over the years, and at one point decided to trade his business suit for painters-pants and a paint brush - and, most importantly, the freedom of having his own business. As I listened to him chat it became clear the business pays the bills - but it also gives him a lifetyle that is promoting his dream: to finish and sell a novel about his experience as a soldier during the Vietnam era. I'm always fascinated to hear other folks' stories, ideas, dreams, and so on. His remarks were woven with insights about literature, the classics, life experiences, the latest book on tape that he's listening to while he paints. He definitely has the gift for gab, and admiitted as much. A natural born story teller.
The reason I mention him tonight is that he is just one of many inspiring examples of people who have a dream, have made a firm decision to pursue that dream, have defined it, developed a plan, and are working steadily toward their goal, over time (the five ingredients that are necessary to achieve any goal). When this gentleman begins painting my house, I'd like to ask him how he goes about 'pursuing' his dream each day. Listening to him, I thought he had a wonderful story to tell - and was adept at telling that story in an engaging, interesting way. I'm curious about learning more about 'how' he's working toward that dream, his plan for selling and publishing his book.
I bet you encounter people everyday who have similar stories to tell. They're working toward their dreams just you, just like me. Sometimes it's helpful to open your eyes and ears and learn from others. It's not easy to work toward a cherished dream alone, but there is help out there if you look for it. People just like you and me who are pursuing the same dreams can be found in classes, clubs, groups; and sometimes you can find support, camaraderie and kindred souls amongst friends, family members and neighbors. All you have to do is open your mouth and ask. Listen to your instincts and describe your dream to people who you think might fit with your overall plan; look for a buddy who wants to travel the same path.
So . . . keep moving forward one day at a time. There's still plenty of time left in 2006 to make progress toward achieving your your dream, your resolution - 215 days until New Year Day 2007! Don't give up, don't procrastinate, don't give in to your fears. Just keep at it, one small step each day. One resolution, one day at a time for one year. Let's 'go for it' in 2006!
