The best way to pursue dreams is by testing

I think we all should become DREAM testers.

[The older we get the more fear prevents us from following our dreams]

That’s my personal hypothesis. It’s based on many conversations with women about pursuing their dreams in Life Part II.

It always starts on a high. There are the tell tale twinkles in the eyes and pure joy unleashes itself in the passion filled words. They are talking about what they’ve always wanted to do. Talk about being lit from within. It’s beautiful.

“Go. Do. That.” I urge.

[Pause]

“I’d really like to…but…”

I squeeze my eyes shut in an attempt to block ….. I know what’s coming after the but….

“…..it probably wouldn’t work out.”

Nooooooo. I scream internally

Another amazing dream that would have provided joy, fulfillment and growth bites the dust. Just like that. Tossed aside; rendered lifeless.

Ugh. Fear provides successful block. Dreams aren’t supposed to work out – right?

Don’t go there.

Listen Up.  Chances are it’s not going to work out exactly as you envision it.

It (actually) has a huge probability of working out better.

Humour me for a few seconds.  Imagine yourself a lab scientist.  You’ve got your clip board and very cool looking goggles on.

You’re testing something in your lab called DREAM.

There’s no such thing as failure in the lab. Right? Some things work out and some don’t. As a scientist you’re excited just to test and test and test some more.

THAT’S what we want to strive for as we pursue (or rather) test our dreams. We want to integrate our dream testing experiences into our everyday lives so it just becomes a part of who we are and what we do. In reality we’re inching our way closer to the DREAM every day. Meanwhile we’re not focused on succeeding or failing or any outcomes at all for that matter we’re just testing and having FUN!

So here’s my challenge to You….Life Part II Dream Chasers. Instead of the word ‘pursue’ insert ‘test’. Take that dream out. Dust it off. Take it into lab. Think of yourself as a DREAM Scientist. Start testing (all in the interest of science of course)!

I bet it feels different.

Focusing on the big DREAM and specific outcomes that accompany it  inspires the fear of failure and disappointment and also locks us into thinking there is only one way to get there. When we all know there are a million ways to get anywhere. Thinking of testing our dreams vs pursing them immediately removes pressure and expectation and that ghastly fear of failure. It brings back the FUN (remember that?) allowing us to reap the joy in each step…every day.

Once testing begins the dream will begin to evolve and take shape. The funny thing is, that often means in a bigger, richer way than what you’re imagining right now.

Let the testing begin!

*Note to TESTERS – Test daily for best results