are you living your big dream?

​“We will only grow as big as we dream, that’s why we must dream big”-Gabrielle Williams.
We hear it constantly, dream big, reach for the stars, let your dreams be bigger than you.
The Big Dream
A big dream is no more than a powerful idea or vision that you want to attain something that appears larger than life.  What I consider to be a big dream, may look different to you and vice versa.  There is no cookie cutter formula on what a big dream is, as it is very subjective and unique to the individual.
For me, a big dream is making a positive substantial difference in the life of many, especially women.  For you, your big dream may be buying your dream home, traveling the world, buying your first car.  Whatever your dream is, embrace it and make it a goal to attain it.
A big dream is just that big, bold and requires that you take risk that is fueled by passion and desire.  It requires you to step out of that comfort zone and have an unrelenting belief in yourself.
See the Big Dream
Write your big dream down on paper.  Make a real and tangible commitment to yourself by writing down your dream.  Have a vision and answer the questions, what, why and how.  Be specific and concise in your answers. This is the big one and it should feel that way.  Imagine Fred Sanford saying he was having the big one.  (Okay my age showed on that one) It should be scary, yet exciting and fueled by passion.  Visualize what it looks like to accomplish the big dream and experience all the emotions that comes with it.  Hold on to that and do not let it go. Write actionable goals.  Create a vision board. Celebrate the small wins and milestones. 
Ignore the Dream Killers!
When I say ignore the dream killers the first thing that may come to mind are the naysayers and negative people. Yes, ignore them, but ignore the voice in your own head that is telling you that you cannot do it.  Ignore the voice telling you to put it off.  Procrastination is a huge dream killer.  Let your passion and your why motivate you to keep going.  Know yourself.  Know your strength and weaknesses.  Make yourself a game plan to win when faced against these obstacles. Destroy the self-limiting beliefs in your head.  Face your fears, I know easier said than done; but it can be done and must be done to accomplish this big dream.  You must believe in yourself and become that confident version who knows what you are capable of. Be optimistic and practice positive affirmations.
​Dreams are Won and Lost in Your Mind
Dreams are won and lost in your mind.  It all begins in your mind: the dream, then your ability to believe in yourself, your ability to put an action plan together to make that big dream a reality.  Les brown said “The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled, the books that were never written, the songs that were never sung, the inventions that were never shared, the cures that were never discovered, all because someone was too afraid to take that first step, keep with the problem, or determined to carry out their dream.” Do not be that person that allows their dream to get buried with them.  Take the first step, then the second step and continue to grow in confidence with each step. Do not be afraid to make mistakes.  Do not be afraid of failures.  These will all lead you to the ultimate goal, which is living that big dream. Have fun doing it and let others share the experience with you.

Dream Big Believe Bold shirt available at www.grownfolkmotto.com 

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Ayana Young

Ayana Young is the owner of the inspirational t-shirt brand, Grown Folk Motto.  She is a business owner and entrepreneur.  Her goal is to create an environment of women who uplift and support each  other into becoming the best version of themselves.