
The acronym for the term fear is ‘False Expectations Appearing Real.’ Let’s further dissect what this means. Fear is defined as “a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc…whether the threat is real OR imagined.” Here, I am going to focus on the ‘imagined’ aspect of this definition. When it comes to our aspirations, dreams, and goals the only real threat to making strides and achievements is ourselves. I speak from experience, when I say that we will convince ourselves of a million and one ways of why we cannot do something. I think this is normal; however, it should not deter what you want to achieve. But, what typically will happen is that you will have someone who gives an opinion that aligns with your fear and you find yourself stuck, avoiding, or tossing your dream altogether. It’s your dream, not theirs. Do not look for a co-conspirator in killing your dream. Furthermore, it is your dream. What would they know about what you want to achieve in that arena?
The reality is that if you surround yourself with individuals pursuing the same course you will quickly discover that your inhibitions are not solely your own. Your cohorts will have had the same thought process and issues. Thus, they will give you a fix to your “mind” problems (yes, it is all in your head) and encourage you every step of the way. This is what I am discovering as I pursue writing. There is not a problem that I have cajoled in my head that is exclusive or new to the writing community. In fact, my instructor will say, “I have a fix for that.” and “Oh, I have a fix for that too.” If I did not have her to say she has a fix, guess what? The books on writing and writing guides have a fix also. I have yet to find something in this particular area where an issue I am experiencing is exclusive and no one knows what I am talking about. So, get out of your own way today and start living your dream.
Tips:
The reality is that if you surround yourself with individuals pursuing the same course you will quickly discover that your inhibitions are not solely your own. Your cohorts will have had the same thought process and issues. Thus, they will give you a fix to your “mind” problems (yes, it is all in your head) and encourage you every step of the way. This is what I am discovering as I pursue writing. There is not a problem that I have cajoled in my head that is exclusive or new to the writing community. In fact, my instructor will say, “I have a fix for that.” and “Oh, I have a fix for that too.” If I did not have her to say she has a fix, guess what? The books on writing and writing guides have a fix also. I have yet to find something in this particular area where an issue I am experiencing is exclusive and no one knows what I am talking about. So, get out of your own way today and start living your dream.
Tips:
- Dream big.
- Most dreams do not happen overnight. Be persistent in pursuing your course.
- Ensure that you are actively working towards achieving your dream.
- Step outside of your comfort zone. No one said the road would be easy.
- Follow your heart. People are different…my work life is different from my dream life; these are two separate entities for me. For others that fast-track career is their dream and they thrive from it.
- Share It. You are not looking for feedback or advice. You’re just simply putting out into the universe what you want to achieve in your lifetime. But, people who are in your corner will ask and inquire about your progress, thus making you accountable.
- Your dream is about doing something that you love.
- It will not be easy, but push ahead anyway.
- Think positive thoughts – no negative energy.
- Your dream, in essence, is your passion.
“We spend most of our lives cutting down our ambitions because the world has told us to think small. Dreams express what your soul is telling you, so as crazy as your dream might seem–even to you–I don’t care: You have to let that out.” ~ Eleni Gabre-Madhim