Chasing your dreams can be liberating, and so much fun — then there’s the downside. Things start to go wrong, and it’s not working out the way you planned. Heck, it’s not working out at all (or so it seems), and this is leading you to become more and more stressed out as the days and weeks pass. You might be asking yourself, “Will I ever get there?” Or, “Is it even worth it?” Fear not, because by reading the rest of this article, you’ll learn seven ways to cope with stress when chasing your dreams.
1. Coaching
Find a coach who can push you through these stressful times. You may not be able to see past any barriers, but your coach can and will challenge you to move forward when you’re stuck. Coaching makes you accountable for your actions; your coach will ask you question that matter, and that will make you see a different perspective. A coach be your guide to achieving those dreams.
2. Reset yourself and get some sleep
Chasing your dreams often means burning the candle at both ends with late nights and early mornings, leading you to become stressed out and unproductive. It’s important that you take time to reset yourself with a good sleep routine, which will allow you to be successful while getting things done.
3. Talk about your feelings with those closest to you
If you have close friends or family members, meet with them and share your burdens. Make sure you talk to someone who is going to listen — you don’t want to feel worse after trying to share your feelings with someone who isn’t paying attention. Discussing your feelings with others can take a weight off your shoulders, and the other person may even give you some practical advice from a new perspective.
4. Admit what you can’t handle
Are you doing too much and can’t handle it? Maybe you need to admit it. Try asking someone else to give you some help temporarily until you get back on track. I did this once — just delegated work to some of my family members. And they were happy to help! You may need to abandon some of what you are doing if you aren’t getting any positive results, and focus on what is working for you right now.
5. Step back and take a break to clear your head
Re-evaluate your values, passions, and goals. As we evolve and grow, everything changes. Take a detailed look at what has changed for you, and see if you need to take a new direction in chasing your dreams. To do this, why not take a holiday or just do nothing for a while to give yourself some head space? Go have some fun.
6. Review current life circumstances
Have you recently relocated, and have to deal with that as well as focus on your work? Maybe you’re struggling with family issues or illness? Or have you lost the meaning of life all together? Heck, maybe all of ’em! These situations can most certainly get you worried and stressed out, but they are temporary. Deal with what you can by being in the moment, doing the most you can to make things better. Take things one step at a time.
The storm will pass.
7. Remember WHY you started
What made you decide to chase your dreams in the first place? Was it money, fame, success or something more — something meaningful that matters to you and only you? What is your WHY? What will you do when you have the money or success? Your “why” will get you through this; your “why” has the power to keep you motivated. When you get stressed out chasing your dreams, always remember WHY you are on the journey, and that the journey comes with ups and downs. So when it all comes crashing down, remember why you started in the first place. Your dreams are worth it.
Now it’s your turn: Do you have any ideas to add that will help someone overcome stress and keep on track chasing their dreams? Share them in the comments below.
Featured photo credit: Allan Foster via flickr.com
