Every now and then I’m invited to stretch my comfort zone by writing something new. When the amazing August McLaughlin asked me to contribute an inspirational article to her 2014 Beauty of a Woman BlogFest, I knew I had to rise to the occasion. My hope is that my story inspires you to believe in the beauty of your most precious dreams and to really go for what you want in life.

I am a hopeful romantic. I believe in love and chivalry and happily ever after. I have a voracious appetite for living an inspired life. I believe in following your heart and living your dreams. I crave passion, authenticity, beauty, connection, presence, fun, and adventure. Anything less than that is not for me. It took me awhile to realize it and I’ve decided not to apologize for being who I am or wanting what I want anymore.

Many times in my life I shared my dream for a love-filled, inspired life with family members, friends, and strangers. I was sometimes surprised to hear them tell me lots of reasons why my dream was unreasonable, unrealistic, or even impossible.

I fought for my dream by asserting how strongly I believed only to allow myself to be worn down by their negativity. I realize now that they probably didn’t want me to be disappointed. And, if they never experienced what I was looking for, they probably didn’t believe it was possible. If I did achieve my dream, what would that mean for them and what they’ve chosen to settle for in their lives? It was their fear speaking.

Without this new perspective, I felt resigned to live a life that was less than what I really wanted. I allowed seeds of doubt to be planted within me. When times got tough, I found myself nurturing those seeds instead of the ones I really wanted to grow. It became a habit to doubt myself, to question what my heart and soul wanted, and to look to others as the judge of what’s possible for me. This habit didn’t serve me or the world. It was downright depressing to give up on my dream.

I still find myself falling into that unhealthy pattern sometimes. I have to remind myself when I’m growing in a new direction and trying something new.

When I decide to go for what I want and really believe in it despite what the well-meaning naysayers say, I often have my wishes granted beyond my wildest dreams.

Our dreams are expressions of our inner beauty. I’ve learned that it’s completely okay to want whatever you want. No one else has to understand, agree, or give you permission to dream your unique vision for your life. (If you were waiting for permission, consider this your official invitation.)

It’s natural to experience fear and doubt when you’re really going for it in life. Growth beyond our comfort zones can feel shaky, unnatural, and even scary. However, just because you haven’t seen anyone else do it doesn’t mean it’s not possible for you.

Life is more fun and rewarding when you’re playing full out and not worrying so much. Amazing things come to us when we’re relaxed, having fun, and feeling appreciative. When I let go of all of my thoughts about how realistic my dream is and instead focus on how I’ll feel achieving it, my energy shifts back into the world of possibility and the magic starts to happen again (and it feels much better, too).

I understand that it can be difficult to chart your own path, but it’s completely worth it.

Here are a few strategies to help you along your journey:

1. Visualize what you really want. Feel the effect of the super juicy dream as if it’s already come true.
2. Stop nurturing the seeds of doubt. Focus on what you want instead.
3. Nurture your new garden of dreams. Honor them by taking action toward them.
4. Pull the weeds regularly. If a doubt appears, uproot it before it can expand. Don’t allow others to plant weeds in your garden.
5. Enjoy the journey. Remember that seeing your dreams grow is part of the fun.

You may feel awkward at first. It’s okay to do the best you can. Embrace your vulnerability, acknowledge your feelings, and keep moving forward. Your dream life awaits! You will be so glad you had the vision, courage, and commitment to make it your reality.

About Whimsical World Co-Founders Sheri Fink and Derek Taylor Kent

Whimsical World is an empowering brand created by #1 best-selling authors and inspirational speakers, Sheri Fink and Derek Taylor Kent. Whimsical World’s mission is to inspire, delight, and educate children of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement. We aim to make positive change through the power of whimsy and imagination.

Our catalog of award-winning, fun-to-read children’s books suit the needs of every child and parent. Themes include anti-bullying, being brave, asking for help, adapting to change, being authentic, and being a true friend. Our books expand children’s imaginations with whimsy and wonder from the depths of the ocean to the heights of the galaxy.

Whimsical World brings joy, positivity, and wonder. We create magical live experiences and merchandise with a message that every child and young adult is thrilled to own and every parent is proud to purchase.