There are many theories about why we dream and what our dreams mean, but there’s no concrete evidence to support any one argument. It is safe to say we all do dream and most of us interpret our dreams as essential clues from our unconscious as to what we could, or should, be doing with our life.
Some of us dream of a successful career as an author, actor, musician, or artist. Others dream of working outdoors with youth full-time, dedicating our lives to build homes for the less fortunate, or somehow making a difference in the world. Still, others dream of a thriving business, travel to distant lands, or maybe unprecedented wealth. We see ourselves doing whatever we want, whenever we want because in these dreams we pursue our passions. These dreams bring us personal, professional, and spiritual fulfillment.
When we share our dreams with others we may hear, he’s a “big dreamer,” or she’s “dreaming big.” These designations are used interchangeably to question our abilities, but there is a subtle, yet critical, difference between the two. That difference is the conscious choice to pursue our dreams.
Big Dreamers spend life thinking about their dreams and hope to find the time, energy, and money to achieve them one day. Those who are Big Dreamers have grand aspirations and little follow-through. They are content with only imagining the possibilities because a “dream” poses no risk to the life they now know.
Those who Dream Big spend life thinking about their dreams and how they will achieve them one day. They hunt each dream relentlessly, and eventually, wrestle it to the ground. Those who Dream Big readily accept the risks that come with achieving their dreams because they believe a life of unfilled dreams isn’t much of a life.
We all dream. Whether we achieve or abandon our dreams is related to the depth of desire, the acceptance of risk, and the courage we marshal to pursue them. How we choose will define us as a Big Dreamer or one who Dreams Big. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with either choice; unless you’re Big Dreamer who wants to Dream Big instead.
How do you dream? How do you want to dream? Now that you know, what will you do about it?
