Hold on to your dreams lightly

We often hear the saying, "Hold on to your dreams tightly," as if our worth is tied to the success of our ambitions. As someone who has always been a passionate dreamer and a perfectionist, I subscribed to this philosophy for a long time. However, this mindset only led me down a path of toxic self-expectations and an unhealthy belief that sheer hard work could make any dream a reality.

The truth is, success is not a guaranteed outcome of intelligence and effort. Consider the people you idolize, the ones at the pinnacle of success. There are countless individuals as smart and diligent as they are, yet not nearly as successful. Such is the unspoken reality of the world we live in.

I do not say this to dampen spirits or paint a pessimistic picture, but rather to promote the cultivation of healthier expectations that lead to healthier behavior. It's crucial to understand that success, while a worthy pursuit, should not be the sole determinant of one's self-worth or happiness.

By all means, make moves towards your dreams, plan and create milestones, but remember not to make them the sole purpose of your existence. Life, in its essence, is akin to an open sea—deep, filled with wonder, but also occasionally cold and frightening. All we can do is navigate the waves as best we can, embracing the journey and learning from each swell and trough.

Hold on to your dreams lightly, for they are guiding stars, not anchors. Allow them to inspire and propel you forward, but never let them weigh you down or define you. Remember, life is about the voyage, not just the destination.