Pursue Your Dreams: Don't Disappoint Your Future Self
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Chapter 1: Embracing Your Dreams
Do you have aspirations? Naturally, you do. These are the thoughts that linger in our minds over months and years, igniting a spark within us whenever they arise. They could be long-held dreams from childhood, like wanting to become a renowned author, or more recent goals, such as launching a vegan food truck.
From our youth, we find ourselves drawn to particular interests and talents. Although these passions may evolve and change, our dreams remain a constant part of our lives. While we could let these dreams stay as mere fantasies that accompany our daily routines, many of us feel a deep-seated urge to actualize them.
These aspirations may shadow us quietly, or they may insistently prod us. Why? Because there exists within each of us the potential for greatness, and we are aware of it.
You Have More Time Than You Think
Nearly two millennia ago, during a period of exile on a rugged island, a philosopher named Lucius Annaeus Seneca penned a letter to a friend. He remarked, “It’s not that we have a short time to live, but that we squander much of it. Life is sufficiently long for achieving great things, provided we invest it wisely.”
If Seneca is accurate—and as an advisor to an emperor, he likely knew a thing or two—then it’s never too late to pursue our passions. As long as time remains, we can allocate it wisely to focus on what truly matters to us.
So, why is this pursuit so challenging? Many might cite “real life”—family obligations, financial pressures, and responsibilities. While these reasons may seem valid, they should not serve as insurmountable barriers. Living a "normal" life doesn’t preclude us from chasing our dreams; otherwise, only those leading unconventional lifestyles could enjoy such privileges.
Instead, I identify two principal adversaries—"dream monsters"—that hinder our aspirations. These obstacles can be insidious, lurking just below the surface. If we do not confront them, we may find ourselves out of time before we can fulfill our potential.
Dream Monster #1: Present Bias
Most of us grapple with procrastination. We tend to delay tasks—whether it’s errands, emails, or projects—until we absolutely must complete them. Deadlines, whether real or self-imposed, often push us to meet our commitments while still allowing for procrastination.
When it comes to our dreams, however, the ultimate deadline is our mortality. Theoretically, we can procrastinate indefinitely, delaying our aspirations until we are too frail or old. The only accountability comes from within, and most of us struggle to enforce this on ourselves.
At the heart of our procrastination lies present bias—the tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term goals. The present feels tangible and real, while the future appears abstract and uncertain. Philosophers have long debated the reality of the future, and while tomorrow is not guaranteed, statistically, most of us will see another day.
The challenge lies in reconciling the immediate with the distant future. It’s easier to envision a bestselling novel than to confront the arduous task of writing a first draft, which often feels more daunting than the dream itself.
To combat present bias, consider your future self as a distinct entity deserving of care and support. This perspective can motivate you to take action today. Recognizing that future you will appreciate the small sacrifices made now can inspire progress.
Dream Monster #2: Fear
The most profound barrier to pursuing our dreams is often fear—not merely the fear of failure, but the fear that our aspirations are unworthy or unrealistic. This fear can paralyze us, making us hesitant to share our dreams, even with ourselves.
We may convince ourselves that our ambitions are trivial, leading to embarrassment and self-doubt. Society often reinforces this belief, suggesting that we are not special enough for our dreams to matter.
Other fears compound this struggle, including fear of discomfort, rejection, change, and missed opportunities. The weight of these fears can lead to apathy and overwhelm, especially when confronted with the realization that dreams don’t materialize without effort.
Imagine you have only a week left to live; you might prioritize immediate pleasures. But what about your future self, who may feel regret or disappointment if, years from now, you haven’t pursued your dreams?
It’s vital to commit to your aspirations now, even when the path ahead seems daunting. As you begin to act, you’ll find that momentum builds. While challenges will arise, so will the rewards of your journey.
Start today with small actions—every step counts. Whether you sit down at your computer, take up a paintbrush, or pick up an instrument, it’s crucial to begin somewhere.
Don’t let down your future self.
Learn how to navigate the complexities of pursuing your aspirations and overcoming obstacles in this insightful video.
This audio piece encourages you to reflect on your future and the steps you can take today to realize your dreams.