Go, Get What's Yours!

Are you the kind of person who sits back and watches life pass you by? When was the last time you identified a job, a relationship, or something you wanted and put in the work to get it? When your desire for something is so strong and undeniable, you do what must be done. It doesn't matter how long it takes, and it doesn't matter how difficult the path is. When you want it, there's nothing anyone or anything can do to keep you from it. There are usually no shortcuts. You will sacrifice. Life, as you know it, will change. This is the price you are willing to pay. After all this, in the end, the fulfillment you receive outweighs the discomfort. All of the doubts and fears of uncertainty disappear, and you realize that it was made for you! But what if you never went for it? What if you made a different choice and decided not to chase that dream, that goal? And there it is…you can't get to what's yours, and you won't know if you don't go!

Chasing your dreams can be a challenging and uncertain journey, but it is worth it. The fear of disappointment and failure can be a strong deterrent. It can manifest in different ways, like anxiety and self-doubt, and will keep you from taking risks and pursuing your goals. But let me take a moment to encourage you! Yes, pushing past your fear takes you out of your comfort zone. But that is when you open yourself up to new opportunities and allow yourself to learn and grow. Listen, your dreams are worth pursuing, and you deserve to make them a reality. Every successful person has been tasked with facing their fear and challenges. They didn't let fear stop them, and neither should you! Fear is natural; we should experience it. Yes, it's okay to feel scared. But don't let that control you. Use fear as motivation to push forward. Don't hold back; go for it!

I know all of that is easier said than done. I understand. I've started my business, Perry Stylings, LLC., fearing that I won't be able to build clientele; this blog is uncertain that anyone would read the posts, and a new job is taking a tremendous pay cut to gain more peace. The journey has not been easy. But it is paying off! With a few adjustments, I am witnessing my dreams coming true. Whether your dream is to start a business, become a professional athlete, or travel the world, there are practices you implement to reduce your anxiety of uncertainty. Here are some steps I applied to my life:

1. Have a clear vision: When chasing your dreams, have a clear vision of what you want to achieve. Ask yourself, what do you really want to do? What are your priorities? What will make you happy and fulfilled? Having a clear vision will help you build a structure that will keep you focused and motivated. Remember, where there is no vision, we perish… (Proverbs 29:18)!

2. Develop a plan and set achievable goals: Once you have a vision, break it down. Create a plan of what you will need to do, and then break that down into achievable goals. Break your vision down into manageable tasks and prioritize. You may need to learn new skills, get an education, or gain experience in a related field. And set measurable and realistic goals that will help you take steps toward your dream. I had to manage the expectations of my beginnings. If I were to be met immediately with a swarm of clients, I would not have the structures in place necessary to maintain. "An inheritance claimed too soon will not be blessed at the end" (Proverbs 20:21). Make sure to have both short-term and long-term goals that will keep you on track and motivate you to keep going. Make sure to build a roadmap that will help you achieve each step of the plan.

3. Be persistent and patient: Chasing your dreams is a marathon, not a sprint. Understand you will face setbacks and obstacles along the way! Things that you did not anticipate will happen - both good and bad. Stay persistent and patient. Remember your vision. "Let us not become weary in doing good for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). Every step forward counts, even if it's just a small one.

4. Network and seek support: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion and can offer support and guidance along the way. Proverbs 13:20 says, "Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise. But the companion of fools will suffer harm." Just look at those who are deemed successful. Pay attention to who they surround themselves around…other successful individuals. So attend events, join organizations, and reach out to experts in your field. Seeking support from others can provide the motivation and inspiration you need to keep going.

5. Embrace failure: This is a very important one. Remember, the fear of failure may be what causes us to not take the initial step into the journey of chasing our dreams. But realize failure is part of the process. Take the risk and make mistakes. Learn from your failures and use them to fuel your motivation. Let your failures be the driving force to push you harder. Forget what is behind you and push forward to what is ahead, toward the goal! (Philippians 3:13-14)

Chasing your dreams can be scary. It is one of the most rewarding experiences! The key is to stay focused and committed to your vision, set achievable goals, develop a plan, be persistent, and surround yourself with a supportive network. Believe in yourself and let nothing stand in the way of chasing your dreams.