Neglected dreams don’t die; they corrode the soul.
The tragedy of serving others is forgetting how to dream for yourself. Looking to the interests of others sometimes morphs into self-neglect.
Servant leaders aren’t martyrs.
Strategies to reclaim your dreams:
Beware of the pendulum. People over-respond when the lights go out. Self-care is an example. We forget the purpose of self-care is maintaining energy to serve others. You can care for others and reconnect with personal dreams. Anything less insults generosity and dignity.
Begin with daily reflection:
Set aside a few minutes every day to respond to one of the following questions. Use pen and paper.
Sample reflection questions:
- What are the most important values in your life?
- What beliefs or fears might be holding you back from pursuing your dreams?
- What small steps can you take now to start moving towards something you’re passionate about?
- Ask people who know you what they think your dream is.
- What have you learned from your past experiences that can help you shape your future?
How to begin:
- Choose a quiet comfortable place.
- Set a timer. Dedicate just 3 minutes each day to this exercise to begin. Go longer if you feel like it.
- Choose one of the above questions or your own.
- Write whatever comes to mind. If you can’t think of anything, write that.
- Reflect. At the end of the week, notice any patterns or new insights.
A week or two of morning reflections is a beginning. Neglected aspirations may be shy.
After reflection time, start trying things. There’s wisdom in action. Ambitions without plans are frustrations.
Why:
Dreams are the source of energy. The most important thing you manage is personal energy. Reconnect with vision when you feel dead inside.
Tip: Be patient with yourself.
How might people who have forgotten how to dream for themselves reconnect with their dreams?
Dig deeper:
The Dreamer’s Dilemma is Dissatisfaction
How to Discover Your Dream | Dr. Michael Wayne
I recommend reading The Vagrant as a tool to rediscovering what’s truly important to you.
The Vagrant provides structured self-reflection exercises that elevates readers beyond naval gazing to practical action. Order your copy today.
