How to Use Dreams to Grow

Dream big and your life might seem small in comparison. When you pine for what you don't have, you can fail to appreciate what you do. But with a detailed action plan, you can use those dreams to change your life--and in some cases, make them a reality. Here's how to use dreams to grow.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Make a list of exactly what you want. Use specific language--instead of "wealth," write specifically what you'd spend the money on, like "new kitchen" or "private school tuition." Envision yourself and your family members living this new, dream life and try to project realistically how they'll be affected if your dreams came true--sometimes what sounds like a dream can be less than dreamy in actuality.
2. Identify obstacles in the way of your dreams. Again, be specific. Instead of writing, "not enough money," note that you'd need a higher salary or a bigger savings account to live out your dreams. If it's not wealth you dream of but a different, more interesting job, lack of education and experience would be your obstacle.
3. Come up with a plan to achieve your dreams. Budget how much money you must save to get what you want, or how much time--and money--you'd have to devote to college or graduate school so that you could earn the credentials you need for your new, higher paying and more fulfilling job. If your dream is weight loss, factor in the time involved in exercising and preparing healthier meals.
4. Do your research. Make sure your estimate is accurate by getting prices on the objects you want to buy and by getting complete information about how much time and money is necessary. Fully gage the level of commitment required--it's when people have unrealistic expectations that they're most likely to not meet their goals.
5. Start fulfilling your dreams with mini-goals. Have smaller benchmarks for your savings account; take it one semester at a time in college. If your dream is to be at a healthy weight, go by 5 to 10 lb. goals at a time. This way each time you make a setback you can remind yourself of the goals you've already achieved, and this can motivate you to keep going.
6. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, even if you're still years away from seeing your dream come true. You'll become a smarter, more savvy and more confident person because of your determination--and that is major growth whether you achieve the ultimate dream or fall short.