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Believe in dreams

Two years ago I went to India. At the time I was frustrated and uninspired but had revisited a list I wrote many years prior; the Taj Mahal was on that list.

I couldn’t find anyone to go with me, so I went, alone, determined to make this dream come true. 

I will never forget the feeling of awe and accomplishment when I arrived: A long-time vision made tangible. I watched sunset and returned for sunrise and walked around in a daze.

When I visited Mount Rushmore, I was disappointed; the size and the proportions didn’t seem to match what I had seen in history books. Yet this. This marvel exceeded my imagination.

Only now do I recognize the strength, courage, and resilience it took for me to get there.

For all those fighting silent battles;

For dreamers who remain committed to their visions;

For those stubborn enough to persist against all odds;

And for the few who dare to create and build: I see you.

Keep dreaming. Believe in your dreams like your life depends on it (it does).

Be the observer

What do you see?

Opportunity or obstacle?

Loneliness or space to create?

Connection or obligation?

Necessity or investment?

Inconvenience or growth?

Pain or lesson?

Those who are against you or those who push you to do better?

The difference between success and defeat is often a matter of perspective. Track your thoughts. Record the way you see the world. It may be time for a change.

10 unpleasant things that are actually good for you

Sticking to a schedule – Having a reliable structure gives you the space to create and dream. The same routine again and again might sound boring, but repetition contributes to mastery and improved skills.

Failing – Disappointments test your motivation and resolve. Failures can encourage you to try again and come back stronger.

Heartbreak – Great lessons can be learned from failed relationships, and the period following a breakup or divorce is ripe for self improvement and discovery.

Rejection – Didn’t get that job or promotion you were hoping for? Ask yourself hard questions and analyze yourself through a more critical lens.

Running/Sprinting/Lifting weights – It will hurt at first, but imagine a healthier, fitter body and mind and get yourself out the door.

Practice tests – Repetition and preparation are cornerstones to success. Improve by doing. Even when it’s annoying.

Being broke – You’ll learn how to budget and save when those last dollars leave your wallet.

Not understanding – Asking questions builds empathy and keeps you curious.

Embarrassment – Moments of humility yield trust and compassion.

Hard work – Put in effort, get results. The best outcomes require time, discipline and focus — and rarely happen overnight.