Giving Up on a Dream

So how do you move on from an unfulfilled dream? As crazy as it sounds, the best way to move on is to discover a new dream. It may seem risky or even foolish to dream again, but dreaming is a crucial part of living a rich, fulfilling life – you just need to find the courage to do it.

Giving up on a dream can be one of the most emotionally devastating experiences in life. It’s hard enough to come to terms with the fact that a dream might not be realized – but it takes incredible strength to actually let go of that dream. Here are ways to do it gracefully – ones that will make your life better in the end!

Revisit the past
The first step is to take a hard, honest look at the dream you’re letting go of. Was there something you could have done differently to make the dream come true? Or was the matter out of your control and in the hands of destiny? Did you do everything you could to make the dream come true? Or did you sit around and dream without taking any real action? Revisit the past in a realistic, productive way, so that you can learn from it. Take responsibility for your own shortcomings, but also give yourself a break when it comes to things outside your power.

Future focus
The next step is contemplating your new dream. What will it take to make the dream come true? What kinds of obstacles will you face? Will you also have to rely on fate? It’s okay to have dreams that soar to extraordinary heights – just be honest with yourself about how difficult it may be to make that dream come true. You have to commit to more than just thinking about your dream – you must be willing to work your butt off to actually make it happen.

Make a plan
The last step is setting goals that will help you achieve the dream. Dreams can be lofty, fuzzy aspirations – but goals are the small achievable steps that help you make the dream come true. If your dream is to become a pop singer, your goals are the steps you take between where you are now and where you want to be: take voice lessons, write music, perform in local venues, record one of your songs, etc. Working with a vocal coach may not be your dream, but it’s a goal that can help you make the dream of becoming a singer come true.

Everyone dreams about the future – it’s a natural part of being human. When dreams don’t come true, it’s easy to get frustrated and shut down. Instead of giving up on dreams altogether, find the courage to aspire again. You’ll be one step closer to making your dream life come true.