Think back to when you were a small child. What did you want to be when you grew up? A football player? An astronaut? A rockstar? No matter who you are, you probably had a dream about the life you wanted to live in the future. Well, the future is here, and while our dreams often change from childhood, it is totally healthy and reasonable to still have them into adulthood.

The primary challenge most of us have, which was not as present in childhood as it is now, is cutting through the everyday grind and rediscovering what our dreams are at their core. It is easy to lose sight of the life we truly desire as we push past tourists, residents and fellow commuters for the sake of getting to work on time.

At the same time, we owe it to ourselves to live happily. Otherwise, we run the risk of losing ourselves entirely and living out an unfulfilling existence for the sake of a paycheck. We all have commitments to keep, both to our daily obligations and to ourselves. That is a delicate and difficult balance, and one that many people struggle to maintain. The truth is, maintaining that balance – and eventually, having your work life intersect with your ideal life – takes conscious effort on your part. So, to get the ball rolling, why don’t you try this?

Living Out Your Dreams

On your next vacation or long weekend, set aside some time for yourself. Grab a notebook and write down what you envision for your ideal life. Be sure to include people, projects, hobbies, new skills, and values associated with that goal. Then, ask yourself whether that ideal – for which you now have the blueprint – matches your current situation. If it does, congratulations! Chances are you have kept your dreams close to your heart and you’re living them!

For many of us, that is not the case. If you find that your current circumstances are far from what you envision make up your mind to do something about it. The mere thought of embarking on a journey toward self-fulfillment can be terrifying. After laying out your own personal blueprint, you may see the information you have jotted down and shout out, “I don’t know where to start!” Don’t let that frustrate you. Neither does anybody else.

Nobody ever embarks on a journey knowing every single step that lies ahead. At times, that includes the first step. Sometimes, figuring out where to start is the first step.

Whatever your “first step” is, take it. Just start.

By starting, you choose a path. By choosing a path, you resolve to explore and learn everything you need to know – good, bad and ugly – about achieving your dreams. Sometimes, this path will re-affirm that you have chosen to pursue the right dream. Sometimes, the path will lead to a decision that your true passions lie elsewhere.

No matter where it leads, continue to follow the path until you gain a greater understanding of your place in the world! You will surely encounter lessons, successes and, yes, even failures that will help you gain better perspective and grow as a human being.

No matter what you encounter in the pursuit of your dreams, it will all add up to help you find where you need to be.