Dreams, Visions, Goals and the "But" Factor
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Dreams, Visions, Goals and the "But" Factor

Hello Lovely Souls,

Ever felt a spark of excitement about a dream or goal only to be halted by that little word: "but"? You're not alone. Today, we’re diving deep into understanding dreams, visions, and goals, and how the sneaky "but" can hinder our progress. Let’s turn those "buts" into stepping stones towards your aspirations.

Dreams, Visions, and Goals: What’s the Difference?

Dreams

Dreams are the seeds of our imagination. They’re the whimsical thoughts that float into our minds when we dare to let our hearts wander. They’re not bound by reality or current circumstances. Dreams are often the purest form of our desires.

Characteristics:

  • Abstract and imaginative
  • Not always immediately attainable
  • Driven by passion and curiosity

Example: Dreaming of becoming a world-renowned author, basking in the glory of literary fame.

Visions

Visions are more concrete than dreams. They are detailed images of what we want our future to look like, infused with our values and purpose. Visions often guide our actions and decisions, aligning our dreams with a broader perspective.

Characteristics:

  • Detailed and specific.
  • Aligned with personal values and purpose
  • Serve as a guiding star for future actions

Example: Visualising yourself as a successful author, knowing the genre you'll write in, the type of readers you'll attract, and the impact you'll make.

Goals

Goals are the actionable steps we take to turn our visions into reality. They are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Goals provide the roadmap for our journey, breaking down the vision into manageable tasks.

Characteristics:

  • Specific and measurable
  • Achievable within a set timeframe
  • Clear milestones and deadlines

Example: Setting a goal to write one chapter per week for your book, with a deadline to complete the first draft in six months.

The "But" Factor: How It Stifles Progress

Despite our dreams, visions, and goals, many of us fall into the trap of the "but" factor. This tiny word can cast a shadow over our aspirations, creating doubt and hesitation. Let’s explore how "but" works and how to overcome it.

Common "But" Statements

  1. "I want to start my own business, but I don’t have enough money."
  2. "I dream of travelling the world, but I’m too busy with work."
  3. "I have a vision to get fit, but I’m not disciplined enough."

The Power of "And"

A simple yet powerful way to counteract the "but" is to replace it with "and." This subtle shift transforms a limiting statement into an opportunity for growth and problem-solving.

  • Example:"I want to start my own business, and I will look for funding options.""I dream of travelling the world, and I will plan short trips around my work schedule.""I have a vision to get fit, and I will start with small, consistent workouts."

Embracing the "Yet" Mindset

Another effective strategy is adopting the "yet" mindset. This approach acknowledges current limitations while keeping the door open for future possibilities.

  • Example:"I don’t have enough money yet, but I’m saving and exploring funding options.""I’m too busy with work yet, but I’m finding ways to balance my time better.""I’m not disciplined enough yet, but I’m building my habits one step at a time."

Actionable Tips for Overcoming the "But" Factor

  1. Identify Your "Buts": Reflect on your goals and note down any "but" statements that come to mind.
  2. Reframe Your Thoughts: Replace "but" with "and" or add "yet" to your statements. Notice how this changes your perspective.
  3. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Break down your big goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate small wins to build momentum.
  4. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community. Share your goals and ask for accountability and encouragement.
  5. Visualisation Practice: Regularly visualise your dreams and goals. This keeps your vision clear and your motivation high.


Your Next Steps

Incorporate this journey into your journal by reflecting on your dreams, visions, and goals, writing them down in detail. Use your journal to reframe any 'but' statements, transforming them into 'and' or 'yet' phrases. Document your progress, celebrate small victories, and set achievable steps towards your goals. Your journal becomes a powerful tool for clarity, motivation, and turning your aspirations into reality.

My new 'Notes from....' series of beautiful mini luxury hardback notebooks - £15

Find it here

In Summary

Dreams, visions, and goals are all integral parts of our journey towards personal and professional growth. Dreams ignite our passion, visions provide direction, and goals lay out the steps to achieve them. However, the word "but" can be a significant barrier. By reframing our thoughts and embracing a positive mindset, we can turn obstacles into opportunities and keep moving forward.

My Top Three-Question FAQ

1. How do I differentiate between a dream and a vision?

Dreams are more abstract and imaginative, while visions are detailed, specific images of your desired future aligned with your values.

2. What’s the first step in turning a vision into a goal?

Break down your vision into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.

3. How can I stay motivated when my goals seem overwhelming?

Set smaller, achievable tasks, celebrate small wins, and seek support from a like-minded community to keep your motivation high.


How I Can Help You Right Now

Feeling Stuck, need to shift your perspective and acting on your goals?

If you're struggling with something in your life right now and could do with some support, then this just maybe what you're looking for. DM me to start your conversation.

Single Personalised Journaling Plan £99.

Six week Personalised Plan with 2 coaching calls £497.

Three month journey £1497 (weekly calls and personalised plan)


Warmest regards,

Nikie Piper – Journal Designer & Creator | Journaling Specialist & Expert

The Art and Soul of Journaling?

Happy journaling! ??

Pam Maccabee

Author/Coach/Public Speaker for Eliminating the Stigma of Crying and Teaching Skillful Use of Emotion

8 个月

Like a lot of people hete, I'm always thinking. I grew up thinking about food, i.e., while a small child, I sported a nickname - Piggy. But I've not been filling the spaces of my mind with thoughts of food since the 2000's. Right now I'm comparing/contrasting the benefits of mindfulness meditation and journaling. As you know, I journaled 1969-1971 reporting only, and 1971-1989 or so, reporting, reflecting, and reading what I wrote to a friend if I needed company for crying....Last year I took a mindfulness meditation teacher certification program. I didn't intend to teach. I wondered how it was taught. The program was superb. My ability to concentrate and notice if I wasn't, improved.. I give the program itself an A+. However, it was apparent to me that the practice of mindfulness meditation has a few flaws. I'm not going to list them. Were I to compare the benefits of mindfulness meditation to the benefits of journaling, I'd say, in a horse race, mindfulness meditation would carry a rider at least one furlong while reflective journaling would take the rider 2 yards from the finish line. Reflective journaling, alone and in community is revolutionary and evolutionary.

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hey there! absolutely, "but" tends to blur our visions. how can we flip the script? Nikie Piper

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