CHASE your Dreams

I've always been someone who liked to go against the grain. I hate all the stigmas that society places on us, that we have to be this or do that. I hate the idea that there's only one right way to do something - more specifically, only one path to success.

I've had my fair share of failures. My life isn't perfect, and I certainly am not either. I definitely don't have a master plan for my future - hell, I have a hard enough time knowing what I want to do this weekend, much less the rest of my life. But I'm happy. So I think that's okay.

I want to talk about creating your own path, CHASING your dreams...rather than waiting around for something that may never come by following someone else's ideas or wants. I think there's a pretty simple formula for it, too.

1. Find YOUR happiness

Think about your talents, passions...what makes your heart happy?! People always say "if you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life" and I think that's absolutely true! Find your happiness and RUN with it!

2. STOP listening to negative criticism

How many times have you heard "that's a dumb idea" or "you'll never reach your goal" or any other negative remarks? I know I've heard it plenty of times. It's especially difficult when it comes from your parents, friends, or other people whose opinion you value. Some of the most successful people in history were told that they weren't good enough, smart enough, talented enough, or that they'd never make their dreams come true. Feel free to take a gander at this post about famous people who faced negative criticism, and still managed to succeed.

3. WORK hard

Taking a different path from others doesn't give you an excuse to take the lazy way. I've been guilty of this. DON'T let minor setbacks or bumps in the road discourage you! It's so important to remember that this is YOUR life and YOUR dreams, and YOU are the one who has to live with the decisions you make. Make the decision to be proactive. Nothing will happen, if you don't DO something. You have to GO GET your dreams!

4. ACCEPT that your path may be different from others

And accept that others may not understand yours. You don't owe anyone any explanations for living your life in a way that makes you happy. Treat others well, and stay true to yourself.

5. Don't COMPARE yourself to others

There are a million billion people in this world, yet only ONE of YOU. You are unique, and special, and valuable. This is probably the most important key to happiness - to LOVE yourself. 
♥