5 ways to start following your dreams...

1. Write Down Your Goals: The best thing I’ve heard was “a goal not written or acted upon is just a hallucination“ woah! Isn’t that the truth?! And actually based on studies 42% of people are more likely to achieve their goals if they write them down, according to ink.com. So get that notebook and pen out asap! Your goals should correlate with your dream(s). When writing your goals don’t limit yourself, write as many goals that come to your mind. Afterwards you will want to pick 2-5 that you can work on and make a consistent habit.

2. Every Day Effort: Everyone has heard that consistency is key, well it is true! To establish good habits that correlate to achieving your goals, that lead to following your dreams, you’ll want to work on your consistency. I wouldn’t be able to write this story on vocal for you if I first didn’t start with a consistent habit of writing everyday. I love to write. I write mostly creative writing but I knew I wouldn’t do much if I wasn’t going to practice and get the rust out of my knuckles and pens- to keep writing a consistent habit in my life. Some days are harder than others, but even if I only write for 5 minutes a day I can be consistent. Like they also say, practice makes perfect. Here is a helpful tip if you are like me and are forgetful: use “time blockers” as part of your schedule everyday. People are busy! In today’s world we are busier than ever, but if you don’t make time you can spend the rest of your life working for someone else‘s dreams instead of your own. Time blockers are simple, just use your phone to set reminders- alerting you that it is time to dream!

3. Positive Affirmations: Following what you love to do can be hard if you let enemy #1 get in your way: fear. One simple way to kick the enemy in the butt is positive affirmations. I am strong. I am consistent. I am a dreamer. Those “I am” phrases can really boost your confidence and keep your head in the game. After all you are what you speak to yourself. Do you speak in kindness, care, and encouragement? Give them a try and you will see the difference in how you view yourself as well as others. I like to start my affirmations in the morning. How you start your day determines your day. So, why not start with some self love? Want a way to boost those positive affirmations? Speak in future tense. Here is an example for myself; I am a writer who adds value to others. If I am telling myself I already add value to others, so it shall be. When you strive for your dreams don’t forget to claim them as your future.

4. Association: I learned a lot about success from business meetings I went to for 2 years. One tip that never failed was to choose your association wisely. Look around you. Are others around you striving to follow their purpose or dreams? Are they on the path to success? Do they try to grow as a person? If your answer is yes, that is great! Stick with them and lean on them for support. You may even want to look into finding a mentor. A mentor is someone who has already done what you are trying to do, to guide you. If your answer in no, connect with people who are striving for the type of life you want or already have it. Build your association for growth, knowledge, and support. Remember if you have 5 friends who love to write, you are indeed the fifth one! Association is everything because environment shapes you. Now, that doesn’t mean throw your friends to the curb if they aren’t on the same grind as you. Instead, add to your association.

5. Take Action: Take the steps above and implement them into your lifestyle! Do not wait! Everyday is a chance to keep striving, building, and growing to achieve your goals and set yourself on the path to succeed in what your heart desires. You can do this! Have faith💛