Never ever stop dreaming.

I’m a dreamer.

There.  I said it.

I am constantly thinking about the great things I want to do with my life. Gone are the days of feeling ashamed and embarrassed.  I have embraced dreaming big and you should too.  Why?  Because dreams are the fuel that brings our ideas to life.

Unfortunately, society is not very accepting of dreamers.

Can you remember a time when someone made you feel bad for dreaming?  A time you shared your hopes with someone and were told to “get your head out of the clouds” or to “get real”? Maybe it was a teacher?  An employer? Someone close to you? No matter who it was, there is nothing more soul crushing than to be surrounded by people who want to see you fail.

Being a dreamer can be often a very lonely road but guess what? You are not alone.  We may all dream a little differently but dreaming often and dreaming big is so important for our own growth and success.  Here are some of my tips for staying on track even when you feel like giving up.

1. Find your biggest cheerleaders and keep them close. 

When I say cheerleaders I’m not talking about pompoms or complicated acrobatics.  Nothing builds more positive energy than surrounding yourself with people in your corner.  I’m not talking about getting a pat on the back or a gold star every time you open your mouth.  What I do mean, however is surrounding yourself with people who inspire and empower you to be a better person.  Find these people and spend more time with them. 

2. Hug your haters (and let them inspire you).

There is no denying the fact that haters are everywhere.  While my tolerance for bull $h!t has diminished with age, it’s important to keep your haters just as close to you as the cheerleaders.  Why?  Because in spite of their word vomit and unnecessary negativity, their behavior will inspire you and push you in the right direction.  Yes, they are mostly parasites who enjoy sucking out the joy, happiness and hope in your life.  But love is stronger than hate.  Embrace them. Embrace the meshuggah.  They will push you and keep you going when you want to give up.

3. Visualize your goals.

When I first learned about vision boards, I almost gagged at the utter cheese of it all.  But then I made one.  It sits on my dresser and I see it when I wake up and when I go to bed at night.  It reminds me of what I want and where I want to go.  When we take the time to visualize our dreams, we are sending an important message into the universe. A vision board is a great tool for staying motivated and focused on what you want in life. So break out the scissors and glitter glue and allow your dreams to take flight.

4. Remember that it is never too late to change your mind.  

Maybe you know exactly who you are.  You have it all figured out.  Or do you?  I can remember spending the bulk of my twenties putting more value into becoming the person I was “supposed” to be instead truly living for myself.  And while what we want and desire can change over time, one thing is for sure:  it is never too late to chase those dreams.  You always have the power to make a change and whether you are 18 or 78 or somewhere in between.  It’s never too late unless you say it is.

5. Create your own dreamers soundtrack and rock out.

Music is the perfect remedy for those days when you feel like throwing in the towel.  Having a list of motivational songs on standby will uplift your soul and get you back on track.  Who needs a montage?  You do!  So grab that hairbrush for a microphone and turn up the volume.  Here’s my list of uplifting and inspiring tunes that will get the positive vibes flowing.

 Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey

Born this Way – Lady Gaga

Shake it Out – Florence + The Machine

What a Feeling – Irene Cara

Don`t Rain on My Parade – Barbra Streisand

Let It Go – Idina Menzel

Fight Song – Rachel Platten

Girl On Fire – Alicia Keys

This is Me – The Greatest Showman Soundtrack

My Shot – Hamilton Soundtrack

Hold On – Wilson Phillips

Livin On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

Dreams – The Cranberries

Ain`t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

Bright Star – Bright Star The Musical

So there you have it.

I hope you have enjoyed this cheese fest but I truly felt this was necessary.  Maybe I’ve been watching too many episodes of This is Us.  Maybe I`m just getting more sentimental with age.  At the end of the day, if this post made you smile, I have done my job.  Take care of yourself and don`t lose heart.

Please remember to comment below.  Got a great uplifting song?  Maybe you want to share your vision board with me?  Let’s keep the conversation going!

Until next time

Xo

Jen