There’s many reasons why we don’t follow our dreams: we lack time, money or other resources; we fear failure (or success); we don’t know where to start. It’s too late, it’s too soon, it’s too silly to start.
We really believe these “reasons.” They sound perfectly plausible.
In fact, when you present these excuses to others, you probably get a sympathetic nod. “You stopped illustrating that children’s book because you don’t have time? I totally understand.” “You’re abandoning your dream of spending a summer in the Alps because work is too busy? I know how that goes.”
Other people agree with you because they’re telling themselves the same lie.
It’s time to stop lying to ourselves.
We may have perfectly legitimate reasons for not following the path that makes our souls sing. Or we may just have a long list of flimsy excuses. I’m betting it’s the latter.
The magic of journaling allows us to truly explore the reasons behind our motivations, actions, and inactions.
Seeing your truth in writing can be both startling and motivating. So get out your journal and turn to a blank page.
Ask yourself:
- What am I waiting for?
Set a timer for ten minutes and write. Write everything that comes to mind, and don’t stop writing.
The first responses will be the usual: I don’t have time. I don’t have money. So and so won’t let me.
Keep journaling.
Next will come the deeper excuses: I’m afraid of failure. I’m afraid of success (!!!). I’m afraid people will think I’m selfish/crazy/irresponsible.
Those responses hit a little closer to home.
But keep journaling. The deeper you dig, the more real your answers become. Then you can ask yourself:
- Are these reasons really more important than my dreams?
Once you see them spelled out on the page — the real reasons you’re not following your dreams — you just may realize they’re not as insurmountable as you thought. They may even appear downright silly.
You deserve to follow a path that brings you closer to joy with every step. Start the journey today.
