If you’re like me, you probably have a normal 9-5 job. You get up every morning, go to work, mindlessly wander through your day, drag yourself home to sleep, and do the same thing over again the next day.
Deep down, you know this is not what you want out of your life, but it’s convenient and pays the bills. You know exactly what you want to do, but something is holding you back.
I remember reading this quote by George Burns that spoke volumes to me:
“I’d rather be a failure at something I love than be successful at something I hate.”
Don’t settle for average
Reading that quote opened my eyes in so many ways. I can either continue to be an unhappy corporate boss or pursue a writing career despite the rejection that may occur.
I eventually took a leap of faith and said, “Screw it, I am doing this.” And you know what? I may never have millions of readers, and I may receive rejections from websites and publishers. I will probably spend years writing a book that may never win grand awards. It’s okay, though. Even if I fail a million times during my writing career, at least I’m finally doing something that feels productive and makes me happy.
I spent almost 30 years working very hard to look impressive on paper and have a career. Unfortunately, that meant placing my dreams on the back burner. I always knew what I wanted to do, but I was afraid of failure. I was afraid I would never be good enough to make a name for myself. I was afraid of what others might think and let those potential judgments drive the wheel. I was afraid that I could never turn my dreams into reality, so I settled for an average life.
I wasted so many years being afraid of failing instead of following my passions. But I’ve finally decided to chase my dreams. I finally stopped listening to the negative voice inside my head.
We all have big dreams, but sadly, most people never actually pursue them.
So, here’s my advice to you…
Don’t let others stop you from living your dreams.
Dreams are not silly. They fill your life with hope. It doesn’t matter how absurd your dreams sound to someone else. Don’t worry if people disagree with your desires or don’t support your goals. They are your dreams, not theirs. Never let other people stop you from going after something you truly want. Dreams don’t have to just live inside your head; you can turn those desires into reality. You can build a life worth living that is full of passion and happiness.
Don’t let fear stop you from achieving your desires.
If you listen to that fear inside your head and let it control you, then you’ll never accomplish anything at all. You will face setbacks, criticism, and skepticism along the way, but it’s merely part of the process. If you fail, then try again and again until you succeed. Don’t abandon your dreams after minor setbacks. Keep trying! Have faith in yourself! You’ll eventually be surprised at everything you accomplish when you put your mind to making your dreams into reality.
Follow your heart, because it will lead you to your dreams.
Listen with your heart, and you’ll know exactly what to do. Work hard to achieve your desires. Remember that this is your life. You can either spend your years on this Earth hating your life or loving every moment. You hold the steering wheel with your own two hands, and you can change the direction you’re traveling anytime. Do what makes your heart happy and full. You won’t regret it.
I made the decision to live my dream, and I urge you to make the decision to chase your desires, too.
Believe in yourself. Follow your heart. Live your dreams.
