I’ve been a dreamer for as long as I can remember. I’m a future-orientated person, driven by family and relationships rather than a career. But my Masters degree is ending and I need to decide on a future now; at least the next little bit of it.

Stepping Stones

My method of dealing with not meeting my dreams, is to explain that this a stepping stone towards the ideal; especially in the midst of the choices ahead of me. As long as I’m still stepping towards it, or staying at this distance from it temporarily, then I’m doing okay.

My ideal dream for now is to live with my partner; but his living and working situation was chosen for him and I’d like to stay here in Brighton. Thus, I have to see the next two years as a stepping stone; living not just separately from him; but with over 100 miles separating us. I’ve looked at the options around me and decided that the most viable way to make money, which I can save for our future is to work here, or back home. Based on the lack of opportunity in the village I grew up in compared to this city… well. Let’s say I’m currently only applying for jobs here.

I’m trying to focus on money-making as a forward step – allowing us to build a future once we reach it. But as I apply for work and look at renting a flat with a friend, I’m aware that this isn’t a step forward towards that dream. If anything, we’re doing to be physically further apart.

Shaping the Stone

So I push my original dreams back a few years in time, and make new dreams to fill the void.

Co-habiting will be at least two years away; so in these two years, I’m dreaming of a nice house or flat, living with a friend or two, enjoying a job in mental health and having access to the support systems of my two best friends and the spiritual communities I’ve come to trust and love here.

I’m applying for jobs, have a possible housemate and am keeping an eye on two-bedroom flats. I’m making this my dream, with reminders on my wall that this is just a temporary stage, and that if I work hard, I can be fully prepared for the challenges which will come up in the future.

Supporting the Step

Every step is a step towards my future, my potential. And one of my dreams is to get ever closer to that potential. Thus, I’ve been refocusing my direction, turning the wheel and sailing in a new direction; tacking back and forth in order to move straight ahead in these windy waters.

For now, I focus on the dream to stay afloat, watching for the signals of the lighthouse. The land I seek will still be there when I finally arrive; and it’s best to arrive at unknown experiences prepared and confident in myself.

Once I’m ready; with land ahoy, money to spend and communication tools in my belt, I can follow the northern star and meet that dream on the shore.

Your Thoughts

What are your deepest dreams? How are you stepping towards them?

How do you deal with set-backs?

Have you made any new dreams? Do you redefine your dreams in line with your current choices?

How could you step closer to them, beginning today?

 
– Rose –

As phoenix rises from ashes into flame, the alchemist turns lead to gold.

Do you need to shine up your dreams and set alight your passions again?

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