Striving for Dreams: What Dreams Should You Give Up On?

As humans, we often find ourselves yearning for something unattainable, a dream that appears just out of reach. These dreams are the fuel that keeps us striving, pushing us to be better. But at what point do we need to let go? Sometimes, we may find that certain dreams are not truly our own, or that they are simply not aligning with our true desires. This exploration can lead to a profound understanding of personal fulfillment and growth.

Understanding the Nature of Dreams

Almost every dream or goal we set for ourselves will never fully satisfy us. The struggle is an inherent part of the journey, and it is precisely this struggle that gives our lives meaning. We dream of being normal, socially accepted, beautiful, loved, successful, and fulfilled. However, the moment these dreams become attainable, a new, even more complex dream emerges. This cycle is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Dreaming of something unattainable allows us to strive and grow, but sometimes, it is crucial to recognize when we are chasing a dream that is not aligned with our core values.

When to Let Go of Dreams

One of the most important aspects of personal growth is the ability to let go of dreams that do not serve us. You should give up on dreams that are not your own; it is possible that these dreams are being held by someone else, or are aligned with a persona you are trying to maintain rather than your true self. Here are some dreams and goals that you might need to reassess:

Being Normal: Striving to be perfectly normal can often lead to a life of mediocrity. Embrace your unique characteristics and quirks, and let them bring you joy and authenticity. Being Socially Accepted: The quest for social acceptance can lead to a life trapped in societal expectations. Focus on accepting yourself, your values, and your place in the world, without the need for validation from others. Being Beautiful or Handsome: External validation does not define your worth. Embrace your inner beauty and self-confidence to find true happiness. Being Desired: The pursuit of being desired can lead to shallow relationships and a lost sense of self. Cultivate meaningful connections based on mutual respect and understanding. Being Loved: True love comes from within. Work on nurturing self-love and acceptance, and then extend that love to others. Being Happy: Happiness is a continuous journey, not a destination. Strive for contentment, which requires self-reflection, acceptance, and resilience. Being Cared About: Focus on building genuine relationships and being genuinely caring towards others, rather than solely seeking to be cared about. Being a Parent: Parenting is a unique journey, and while it is rewarding, it is not a guarantee of fulfillment. Embrace the experience and the gifts it brings, but also understand that it is just one aspect of your identity. Being Successful in Life: Define success on your terms. Seek to achieve meaningful goals that align with your values, rather than the standards set by others. Being Fulfilled: Fulfillment comes from aligning your actions and values with your goals. Let go of false expectations and seek genuine satisfaction. BeingForgiven for Being a Failure in Life: Embrace the concept that failure is a part of the journey. Use every experience to learn and grow, and find forgiveness in the process.

Recognizing Non-Authentic Goals

As you embark on the journey of self-discovery, it is important to distinguish between dreams and goals that are truly yours and those that are someone else's. Dreams often stem from societal expectations or a desire to conform. It is crucial to identify non-authentic goals, which may serve as distractions from truly pursuing what will bring you genuine fulfillment.

Example: Finding Bigfoot

Consider the dream of finding Bigfoot. While this may be an intriguing and exciting goal for some, it is not a realistic or meaningful dream for everyone. This pursuit may distract from more important, personal goals. For instance, if you are passionate about wildlife conservation, finding Bigfoot may take away time and energy from efforts to protect real, endangered species.

Similarly, if you find yourself chasing after goals that others have set for you, it is important to reassess. You might be wasting time and resources on something that does not align with your true aspirations. Focus on dreams that are driven by your own desires and values.

Striving Towards Authentic Goals

By giving up on dreams that are not your own, you can focus on authentic and meaningful goals that will truly fulfill you. These goals should resonate with your core values and aspirations. For example, if you value creativity, a dream of starting a small business that allows you to express your creativity may be more fulfilling than finding Bigfoot.

Remember, the struggle is what makes life meaningful. However, the struggle must be directed towards goals that align with your personal values and aspirations. By recognizing and letting go of non-authentic dreams, you can unlock true fulfillment and happiness.