Dreams and Aspirations

Dreams. Do you remember day dreaming about your future when you were young?  Did you plan your dream home?  Did you imagine your family and children?   Did you tell your parents you were going to be a fireman, a stewardess, a singer?  What happened to those dreams?   My opinion?  Life took over.



I was having drinks with some friends the other night and the discussion moved to our goals, aspirations and life time dreams. Gwen stated that she had spent her whole life being responsible, logical, focused, ALL business. She met a woman a year or so ago who is her complete opposite. Her partner is artsy, free-spirited and unemployed. As Gwen described her friend, you could see she was very fond of this woman who was so different from herself. As we continued the conversation, Gwen relayed that she believed she liked her new partner because she was finally getting in touch with her creative side. Gwen had been so focused on her career and the responsibilities of owning a home, becoming educated and getting ahead that she completely suppressed any creativity she possessed. Together, they attend art shows, got to museums and enjoy the softer side of life now. It was clear that Gwen is truly enjoying the ability to explore a side of her that has been in the dark for so many years.

My good friend, Brad, has also been struggling with pursuing his life long dream of creating music. He has recently recorded beautiful music and has been invited to play with a few popular groups. When we asked him what it was that gave him more joy than anything else, he stated, emphatically, MUSIC! He said, it's even better than sex! He spent his life putting aside his dream in order to raise his family, go to school, own a home and be a good husband. Now, finally, after reaching his 50's, he is pursuing what he truly loves. This is truly awesome! Brad has really embraced his new goal in life and has converted his dining room into a recording studio.   He has made the decision to DO what he's always wanted to do. 

I am so impressed with how each of these friends have found a way to do what they love.   I recently sold my home, moved and have my youngest child in college.   I realize I, too, have spent my life pursuing the American Dream.   Marriage, children, career, home.  All the things that are supposed to make you happy and whole.  While I am appreciative of my life and grateful for all the great experiences, I am feeling less than fulfilled these days.   It seems that I've even lost touch with what it is that I love.   It's all been pushed to the back and bottom of everyday activities.   Now, I find myself with time to think and reflect.  A first in SO many years!   What do I want?   How do I want to contribute to society?   What will fulfill me?  

Several years ago I worked with a woman who had started an organization to help women understand finances.  The Women's Institute for Financial Education (WIFE) was born.   One of her workshops was entitled, Finding Your Passion.   I wish I had taken this workshop to heart and found my passion and pursued it several years ago.  But, as they say, there's no time like the present!   Find your passion.  Pursue your dreams and aspirations.   It's not too late!  There are several articles about this topic as well.  Some of the ones I found most interesting are:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/11/whats-your-passion_n_1757073.html
http://www.forbes.com/sites/erikaandersen/2012/07/23/3-simple-ways-to-discover-your-passion/

WIFE has some great questions on their site: http://www.wife.org/finding-your-passion.htm.

Thank you Gwen and Brad for sharing your place with me.   You are an inspiration.  Good luck to those of  you who decide to find your passion.