Table of Contents:
Learn how to Live your dreams with these simple steps
Want to live your dreams? Learn how to stop doubting yourself, how to gain the right attitude, and how facing your fears results in success!
The world as we have created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking.
~ Albert Einstein
Jodie and I were high-achieving children, successful students, and motivated young adults. We took on every new challenge that presented itself from academics to competitive sports, the stage, music, student government, college, world exploration. You name it, we were ready to try it and give it our all. Success met success which fueled our lack of fear and willingness to “go for it.” After college, we both went on to graduating with honors from graduate schools.
For Jodie, she continued to be fearless, completing marathons, teaching in foreign countries, developing curriculum and attacking life head on. I, however, got married and started our family. Slowly my dreams started to wane. What were they anyway? My time had come and gone. After Jodie (finally) settled down trading her professional, exotic life for domestic “bliss” she joined me in “shelving” her dreams.
I was so far removed from dreaming that I barely remembered what my dreams were. The only “dreaming” I was doing was for and about my children. Hey, what’s wrong with that, you ask? It’s great to have dreams for our children; not just great, important. But this shouldn’t mean you shouldn’t live your dreams.
Why Do We Stop Dreaming?
Your job isn’t to know the how, it’s to know the what and to be open to discovering, and receiving, the how. ~ Jen Sincero
As we go through life we “learn.” And sometimes what we learn doesn’t work in our favor. Things happen, we draw conclusions, and we cut ourselves off from possibilities. We develop strict “rules” about ourselves, the nature of the world, and our abilities as they apply to our dreams. These rules literally close doors to areas of possibility and opportunity. We make up ALL KINDS of excuses. These excuses protect us from the hard work it takes to chase our dreams; they let us off the hook. They keep us “safe” from disappointment and rejection and act as a wall between us and a fulfilled life.
What Does a Massage Have To Do With It?
I had a massage recently, and she found amazing amounts of scar tissue built up in certain areas of my body. When the body experiences stress, the area receives extra blood flow, and as a result the body produces “protective” fibers. Over time these build up and instead of protecting they end up harming. They impede movement. When they get really built up they can stop blood flow, the very thing that is needed.
When we build safety nets for ourselves they protect us, but they also stop us from challenging ourselves, reaching beyond what is safe and easy. Eventually, they obstruct our forward progress. When we stop allowing ourselves movement, we lose access to our talents & skills. We stop our own development. Just like the scar tissue, this “protection” ends up hurting instead of helping.
Remember: If we aren’t growing we are dying.
Ski Lessons
About 15 years ago I decided skiing was an “uncomfortable” thing to do. Even though I really enjoyed skiing it was scary. Plus I hated being cold. Can you hear the excuses? I decided I didn’t need to ski anymore. So, I said no to many opportunities to go skiing. About five years ago at age 45 I said to myself,
“Julie, stop being a wimp! Don’t worry. Just go for it. Bravery should NOT be a thing of your youth. You are missing out on life!” So, I have been on two long ski trips since and loved every minute of it. I think I enjoyed it even more than I had in my youth. I pushed myself, skied through the fear and occasional discomfort (mental and physical) and enjoyed tremendous joy on the other side. That is what it feels like to really live you dreams.
Lesson Learned: Don’t let discomfort or fear stop you. In fact, when you feel these things, run toward it because these are the moments worth living. You deserve to live your dreams without fear.
My Story: The Importance to Live Your Dreams
Looking back, even up until a few years ago I really enjoyed my “safe” life. Yes, it was kind of boring, but I was focused on my children. Their successes were my successes, and this was the life I chose. I loved my children more than life itself, and it was my labor of true love and purpose to make sure I did all I could to teach and shape them and provide all the opportunities which would result in them developing their own God-given potential. It was a full-time job.
But how did they view me? As “mom,” “personal maid,” or “chauffeur.” What was I teaching my daughter about a woman’s role in the world? Was this how I wanted her to spend her life after giving birth? Dedicated solely to her children, forgetting her personal or professional development, abandoning her dreams? Of course I did not. In dedicating my life to my children I left out a key component: role model. Not only for my daughter, but also for my sons. It was important for my sons to view the role of women as more than caregiver or their personal maid! I wanted my sons to view their future wives as equals and whose roles would include more than that of mothers and housewives if they desired. I realized the importance to live your dreams, how it wasn’t just about me, but my children as well.
Read this article by Life Hacks to learn more reasons to follow your dreams.
A New Chapter and An Open Mind
The first thing that happened was I moved to Seattle. I had no friends and no job, and all of a sudden due to my daughter getting her licence and my youngest taking the bus, I went from 6+ drives a day to and from school to zero driving. I was FREE. What should I DO?
I read a book called The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. If ever I was going to live my dreams now was my chance. After identifying my passions I thought about going back to school to get another degree, this time in interior design. I wanted to be a decorator. I started dreaming of becoming a decorator. Subsequently, I started thinking like a decorator, what it would look like, preparing mentally. Soon, I was decorating every chance I got, using online tools and redecorating my spaces every day.
Act “As If” to Live Your Dreams
Next, I stopped doubting myself and began “acting as if.” As if I were a decorator, not like someone hoping and wishing that one day she might possibly be so lucky as to perhaps end up with an opportunity to maybe pursue her dream. Do you see the difference?
Instead of imagining obstacles I imagined DOORWAYS. I had a newfound excitement and a newfound faith. It is no coincidence that it was at this exact moment in my life that I accepted Christ as my savior. Even though I had always been spiritual, gone to church for much of my life, and had prayed on and off. This was different. I was giving my life over to Christ. In his hands I had no fear.
Faith, my friends. It is power! It’s waiting for you, free and available for the taking to live your dreams.
Attitude is Everything
With my new attitude I saw possibilities and had newfound clarity. It was around this time my daughter introduced me to Instagram. We moved into our new house. My days were filled with decorating, redecorating, and taking pictures. I got a job at a home decor boutique and was decorating around the clock. My skill level seemed to mirror my confidence. The more joy and confidence I felt, the better I decorated. No training, no schooling, simply desire, passion and faith. And the universe provided.
Faith and Confidence to Live Your Dreams
My faith and confidence are carrying me to each next phase of this journey. Three years ago I didn’t have the confidence to write a blog. Now, Jodie and I are embracing all possibilities. We are dreaming big and not afraid to fail. Not only are we actively dreaming, we are going after our dreams. The only failure is in not trying. We have a whole new attitude on life and living and we’re not going to waste one day. Because each day is a gift to be valued, and lived for all it’s worth. Now, it’s time to live your dreams.
Remember Friends, success becomes possible only when your faith is greater than your fear.
Want to live your dreams? Here is Jodie’s and my recommended reading. Each one of these books is powerful and worth reading multiple times. Happy Reading!
Recommended Reading List
❤️I enjoyed reading this. Thank you for sharing.
I’m working on that reading list. 🙂 Wonderful and inspirational post, as always.
I am so happy that you have allowed yourself to bloom and prosper, with happiness and a joyful heart. Many blessings my friend!
XO, Shannon
Shannon! Aw, you sweetie pie! Your heart is so true and so big! You share it so generously with us and all who you encounter. Feeling extra blessed to have you here on the blog today…a special treat for sure. Your words mean so much 🙂 With love & gratitude, Julie & Jodie
Beautiful post!!
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13…
We can do nothing with out Him…
Thank you Julie, for all you do!!
Mary Ann, Thank YOU! Wow, I’m so glad this resonated with you. You are absolutely correct. We can do all things through Christ. Not only can we, we MUST! Thank you darling, for your kind support and beautiful reply. Your friends, Julie & Jodie
Oh my! Sitting here in tears! I so much needed this today! Thank you so much! I feel like I have so much to offer but always doubt myself saying it isn’t good enough. Through prayer and your encouragement today I am going to give it all to God and see where He takes it! Blessings to you guys!
YES! Janet! You are gonna make me cry! God did not create you without purpose. To deny or doubt your gifts is to deny God. It’s like saying God doesn’t know what He’s doing! It’s like saying He could have possibly created you without purpose or made a mistake and we both know this is not possible! Living up to your potential is giving God His glory! You did just make my day! Go Girl! With much love, courage, blessings, & fortitude, Julie
Thank you for your kind words! I have talked about this over and over again since I read your post and have already started telling myself that God put these wonderful ideas in my head and to stop doubting the talents He gave me.
Encouraged in Missouri! 🙂
Janet! Keep it up. God has an important plant for you. Don’t doubt yourself and you won’t doubt Him! So excited for what is in store! All things for a reason, My Dear. With love, Julie
Love all this inspiration!
Thank you, Lucy. It means a lot. It makes it all worthwhile to hear that you appreciate these words. With love & gratitude, Julie & Jodie
???? always touches home to read your blog posts. You are a touchstone for many…me being one of them ????
Wow Jill, Your words just about made my day. I’m so glad this resonated with you. Thank you for your kind support. It means so very much to Jodie and me. With love and gratitude, Julie & Jodie
What a beautiful post with such a positive and inspiring message! Not only do you open your homes to us with beautiful decor, but you open your hearts as well and that is truly a gift. Thank you! 🙂
Aw Laurie! You are so kind! What a gorgeous reply! Thank you so much for reading and taking the time to leave such a generous reply. We hope you continue to enjoy. With love & blessings, Julie & Jodie
Jodie & Julie, you both make me so proud to be your mom. Somewhere along the way I feel I must have done something right, more than once, to read these inspirational words from you. Keep up the good work and reaching those goals. You’re both amazing!
Aw Maman, You are awesome! We are so glad you are reading and enjoying our blog. With love galore, Julie & Jodie
What wonderful stories you both share. I love your helpful hearts, your beautiful styling and all the inspiration you give.
Love and hugs ????
❌⭕️❌⭕️
Krista
Krista, Your message was a joy to receive. Thank you so much for visiting and for your sweet reply. We are surely enjoying this journey and sharing our hearts and our homes. We hope you will continue to enjoy our blog as we are just getting started. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie
Thank you for sharing! I just love how personal you are. I love your passion for life and pursuing your dreams. My bucket list gets longer each day. Thanks for the boost and positivity you constantly give me as I read your blog and admire your beautiful home from afar.
Glory
Glory,
You are such a love! Your encouragement means so much to us. We are thrilled to have you along for this wonderful journey. We are so very happy you are enjoying and encouraged by our blog and IG. With gratitude, Julie & Jodie
I love that you followed your dreams after raising your kids, it’s encouraging to hear the story of your journey. You both so open hearted and supportive, what wonderful character you both have.
Thank you, Patti
Patti, Your kindness is overwhelming. We feel so encouraged by so many of our followers, you included. We travel this journey together and have more to give because of your generosity. Words can’t fully express our gratitude but thank you for all the love & support, Julie & Jodie
Julie, you are flying, you leaped and you are sheltered under His wing! It’s a privilege to see you )both( soar.
Is it easier do you think because you have each other?
Do you think that trusting Jesus facilitated everything?
What do you think is the biggest reason others are held back from actively pursuing their dreams?
Sometimes l feel as if l’m facing insurmountable odds, but then l remember who has already fought and won my battles, and l only need to walk in faith! There may be giants in the land, but He is able!
Dee, In turn your words lift us up! Faith is our greatest power. We are reborn in Him. And when we rely on Him, truly and utterly, He gives us His strength and never-ending love. So blessed to be connected to you and to share in your wisdom and grace. With blessings & love, Julie & Jodie
I adore you ladies! Every since I found you, I’ve been smitten…with your talent, your sweet hearts, your belief in our savior and your desire to share it all with those who are enamored with your striking style and your childlike Joyce yes, your twin…ness ! You have already packed a lot into your short lives, but I believe you have just begun. Your common gift…creating beauty where none existed, is sought by many, of whom I am chief. You see, you probably don’t even know that decor, furniture placement and styling scare the socks of some of us and we have not a clue where to start. Simply seeing your IG posts and blog posts gives us hope…learning from your examples the same way we were thought to recognize counterfeit money…by handling and seeing the real thing until we are so familiar with It that the fake is recognizable in many levels. Your gifts are undeniable….and they are many! I have been richly blessed by finding and learning about you both. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us. I wake excited every day to see what my twin friends are going to do next. And oddly enough, I sometimes feel like a child with pretend friends she’s never met, but loves dearly!!! You have been a treasured gift to me and I expect that to last for a lifetime! You’re on your way to bigger things and I feel privileged to be right here reading and watching your journey!
Julie, Your words are a true gift. We better not let all your rave reviews go to our heads (haha). Seriously, you just make our day! Thank you so much for your gorgeous generosity! You are heaven-sent! With love and real gratitude, Julie & Jodie
It’s so easy to lose ourselves in our daily lives. Once we have children, we have a whole new world to navigate and once again, our focus is directed at something else. I find myself feeling guilty at times when I do things for myself, although my husband encourages it. It’s important that we find what makes us happy, find our passion and chase it. The rewards that follow are endless.
Thank you! thank you! You nailed my heart & place in life? I’m 60 & it’s where I’m at! The beginning stages. Thank you so much for sharing your journey & the steps you’ve taken. My first step this year is painting my nice oak dining table with paint I bought last m
May. Something I’ve wanted to do for 3 years, but afraid to. For 2020, I decided this is it, I’m going after my dreams. I just finished the table & I LOVE it! Now I’ll paint the chairs. Then not looking back, I’m going for it! Thank you so very much for sharing all that you do! GOD BLESS YOU BOTH!
Tami, We just love to hear your excitement and to hear how you are making changes. It can be scary, but exhilarating to try new things. If we stop risking we slowly stop living. We only have a certain amount of time here. Make every day count and live with no regrets. That’s our motto (one of them at least!) Wishing you all great things on your new path of discovery! With love, Julie & Jodie
I focused mainly on my family and forgot about dreaming too. Until my kids were almost grown. Love this post. You two are so inspirational!
Tracie, It happens to a lot of women. I believe it is the inherent danger of motherhood….getting lost in our children’s lives. We need to be so selfless at times in order to be awesome mothers. But then we forget about ourselves. And in the end we forget our own dreams. It’s never too late though. We hope you will stay tuned and continue to be inspired to make the mental shift, to begin to dream again, and to take action to live your dreams. Wishing you blessings along your journey, Julie & Jodie
My son lives in downtown Seattle and works for Amazon. I’ve been out there a couple of times and not once did I see a church. I’m so glad to hear there are some around there! You are an inspiration! Thanks for sharing. It’s interesting how we “grow comfortable in our skin” and are willing to accept more failure as we age and see that its a good thing.
Maureen,
Oh very cool! Thank you for the kind words on this post sweet friend. Yes there are a lot of great churches around here. You are so welcome, glad you enjoyed this post.
Lots of love,
Jodie & Julie