Three Ways to Not Give Up on Your Dreams - Entry by Jessica Wright
Do you know your life purpose? What drives you to wake up each morning? Whether it’s creating art, starting a business, running a marathon, or writing a book, I believe living your purpose is essential to a full, complete life. Your purpose is a gift—and if you don’t pursue it, you may never feel entirely fulfilled.
It’s tempting to look at others chasing their dreams and assume it comes easily to them. Let me assure you, as someone actively working toward her goals, it doesn’t. The grit and hard work of achieving your dreams can be isolating, even painful. Friends or family may not understand or support you. That’s okay—they don’t need to. If this is YOUR purpose, it’s not up to anyone else to believe in it.
My Journey to Purpose
For nearly 30 years, I ignored my true calling: becoming a private practice business owner. As a naturally empathetic and compassionate person, I’ve always helped others with their feelings, but I didn’t view it as anything special. It was just part of who I am—a gift that felt more like a curse at times.
I distracted myself with friendships and worries about people who didn’t share my vision or my dissatisfaction with where I was. Deep down, I was afraid. Who was I to think I could run my own business?
Then, I read Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. She inspired me to build daily habits around pursuing my dreams. Her advice? Working toward your goals isn’t glamorous—it’s hard and often unfun—but it’s vital. With her inspiration and the support of my loved ones, I started waking up at 5 AM every weekday to work on my dream. Six months later, Wright Choice Counseling was born.
The Hard Work of Dreams
Today, my practice is growing steadily. But even as it lights me up and rarely feels like “work,” I face moments of exhaustion. Recently, a friend reminded me that stress and hardship are part of the process. “It will get harder before it gets easier,” she said. And she was right. The grit it takes to keep expanding my practice can make me question my purpose, but I keep going.
3 Ways to Not Give Up on Your Dreams
1. Reconnect with Your Purpose: Everyone has a unique gift and purpose. If you don’t pursue yours, you may one day regret it. Unsure of your purpose? Spend quiet time journaling and listening to your inner voice.
2. Move Your Body Daily: Exercise relieves stress and builds confidence. Achieving this simple goal helps you realize that all goals are attainable when approached with consistent effort.
3. Know Your Values: Your values are your compass. Mine are independence, freedom, and compassion. Knowing these keeps me focused and helps me push through doubt. Jessica Butts, a fantastic Myers-Briggs coach, offers a free quiz to help you discover your core values: Take the Quiz Here.
Chasing your dreams isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Find your purpose, lean into the hard work, and remind yourself why you started. You’ve got this!