As part of living an authentic life I have been really focusing on this notion of living your dreams. I know for myself, as a mother, I continue to struggle with taking the time to follow my dreams when sometimes that means less time for my family. Do you feel that way too? Have you decided not to go back to school because it would take too much time away from the family? Have you stopped yourself from pursuing a dream job because the hours wouldn’t work well with all of your family obligations? Click on through to read my story and how I have fought and won this battle with myself. Follow your dreams, it is the greatest gift you can give your children.
My world changed the first moment I laid eyes on my first born. Many of you, I’m sure, had the same experience. From that moment on my total focus was on providing for him. Whether that be my time, my love, my money, or my own feeling of fulfillment. Every decision was made to benefit him. Discussions began and ended with what would be the best for the family. In fact, my decision to go back to graduate school was primarily driven by the idea that if I went back to earn my Masters in School Administration, I could become an assistant principal and earn more money for the family. The long-term benefit outweighed the short-term sacrifice of not being with my family one night a week while I went to class. The funny thing is, once I started going to school I felt a real sense of accomplishment. It turned in to something for me. The semesters passed and before I knew it I was getting ready for graduation. This was the pivotal moment for me. As I proceeded in for commencement, I ended up sitting on the same row my family was seated. As I looked down the row to spot my then 3 year old, I saw a look on his face I will never forget. Awe. I’m sure he didn’t really understand my accomplishment, but the look on his face solidified for me that I truly have to lead him by example. If I try to set a good example in all aspects of my life, wouldn’t following dreams be an important example to set? Why was I so willing to set aside my dreams, providing the example that following dreams and accomplishing goals is selfish? Don’t I want him to follow his dreams and accomplish his goals? It was a real moment for me, nicely captured in this photo. It reminds me to keep saying to myself, “follow your dreams”.
That photo is important to me because it reminds me that I want my children (now two) to be proud of their mother for more than just the sacrifices I made for them. Since then, I have kept going to school, earning an Educational Specialist degree and am currently a Doctoral Candidate. I write this blog because it too fulfills my dreams. It is important to me. They don’t really get it right now, and that’s okay. Someday, I trust, it will all make sense.
When I think back on my own childhood, I’m thankful my mom carpooled me all around. But when I really think about how she shaped me into the person I am today, I am more inspired by her accomplishments for herself. A while back I watched a great Ted Talk video about having your dream job. It is by Larry Smith and it’s titled “Why You Will Fail To Have A Great Career”. I’ve linked it up for your enjoyment and inspiration.
My big lesson learned: If I don’t follow my dreams, how can I ever encourage my child to follow his. Live your authentic life so they can live theirs.
Nancy
Love the new graphics, the link to your recent posts and the link to Ted Talks. It really looks polished.
Great advice!