Why does it seem so much harder to dream big as we get older? We let all the mind trash get in the way. Maybe we can identify a dream job, a dream car, or a dream vacation, but even that is limited to what we think is possible. If only we work harder, try harder, or do more of something else. Kids don’t have the same limitations with dreaming that we adults do. They can easily proclaim they are going to be an astronaut. I think I even said I was going to be President one day; not something I actually wanted, but I had no issues with telling the world that, or at least my teacher. I remember she said I could be anything I wanted to be! When did that stop, and how do we get it back?
When we are so focused on so doing, doing, doing, we forget to dream and imagine life’s possibilities. We get stuck believing that the past will predict the future. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. Even if we don’t exactly know our dreams, we can try them on. What would you do if you won the lottery? If money weren’t an issue, where would you travel? If you knew you couldn’t fail, what risk would you take?
Did you know, the more you imagine what’s possible and visualize it, the more likely it is to come true.
I know that sounds like new age “woo” stuff, but neuroscience actually backs it up! Our brains love to solve problems. If there is a gap between where we are and where we want to be, our brains will find avenues to move toward that goal, whether we are aware of it or not. Interestingly enough, our brains cannot distinguish between real and imaginary. I can make my heart race just by thinking of snakes. The physiological reaction is the same whether it’s in my mind or in reality. Visualizing in athletics is proven to be as important as practice. Seriously, you can improve your performance merely by visualizing. So why not imagine and visualize your dreams? You just might surprise yourself.
Since I spend the beginning of every year (or the last quarter of the previous year) laying out my goals in a logical manner, I like to use my right brain to conjure up new ideas and possibilities. Every New Year’s Day I create a vision board with beautiful images depicting destinations, goals, relationships, and material possessions. I add affirmations, words, and stickers to make the board meaningful and positive. This year, I’ll be having a big event to do an online Vision Board Party with a Twist and would love to have you join me. Contact me at [email protected] for more information about jump-starting your dreams and goals for 2020.
