Overcoming Guilt When Pursuing Your Dreams
There’s a Fine Balance Between Gratitude and Desire
I recently came across someone who believes that striving for “more” in life keeps us from being fully present and grateful for what we have now. And let me tell you, it triggered something in me.
I couldn’t disagree more. Our beliefs shape our thoughts, and our thoughts affect our choices. And ultimately, our choices create our reality. That’s why it’s crucial to have beliefs that support the life we truly want.
It bothers me that our society tends to shame people who strive for more, making them feel guilty for wanting something different. It’s almost as if people think that desiring more means we aren’t grateful for what we have now. But that’s simply not true. And honestly, I think that reaction says more about the people doing the shaming than it does about those of us who are striving.
I want to live in a world where revealing your dreams inspires others to cheer you on. Imagine how amazing that would be!
But let’s be real, we all have negative Neds and Nellies in our lives. That’s why it’s essential to protect our dreams by surrounding ourselves with people who lift us up rather than bring us down.
Personally, I’m incredibly grateful for my life, my family, my business, and everything else I am blessed to have. AND at the same time, I still have goals and dreams that I’m working towards. And you know what? I’m not ashamed of that. I’m fueled by it.
“Desire is the starting point of all achievement, not a hope, not a wish, but a keen pulsating desire which transcends everything.” — Napoleon Hill
Think of desire as a pendulum. If it swings too far in one direction, we risk becoming consumed by ego or worry. And if it swings too far in the other direction, we risk losing sight of our goals.
It’s not about either-or, it’s about finding balance. Everything is energy, and the pendulum is always swinging. The key is to be self-aware and purposeful, so the swing becomes more gentle and intentional.
If you’re struggling to navigate your true desires, start by acknowledging what’s missing in your life when you compare it to the vision you have for your best life. Recognize that wanting something different, or more, doesn’t negate the gratitude you may feel for what you have now.
I truly believe that when women pursue their true desires, radical shifts happen. Lifestyles are elevated, and ripple effects of possibility create positive change for everyone around them. It’s the striving for more that opens new doors and drives positive change.
And let’s be clear: there’s nothing wrong with striving for more. As Miley Cyrus says in her song The Climb, “There’s always gonna be another mountain. I’m always gonna wanna make it move...” It’s in our nature as humans to have a desire for growth and development, always pushing ourselves to climb higher and achieve our goals.
So go ahead and be happy now. Be present and aware. And most importantly, have the courage to go for your dreams and give yourself everything you’ve ever wanted in life. You deserve it!
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