When did you last check in with your dreams?

Recently, whilst listening to Steven Bartlett's ever-inspiring Diary of a CEO podcast episode featuring love and relationship experts Julie and John Gottman, I found myself pondering a question that often gets overshadowed by the hustle and bustle of daily life: When did I last check in with my dreams?

Having clear goals and dreams was not the main focus of the podcast episode. Steven and his guests covered a wide range of topics. But on a couple of occasions, the Gottmans emphasised the significance of listening to, understanding and supporting your partner's dreams, as well as sharing your own aspirations with your partner.

And this really resonated with me. I realised that amidst the chaos of raising two children, managing our careers, overseeing a home renovation project, and navigating the myriad responsibilities of life, conversations about our dreams have slipped through the cracks for my husband and I in recent years. The truth is I've not checked in with my dreams in a very long time. And I don't think he has either. 

So what are my dreams? It's a question I had to pause and truly reflect upon. In the rush of daily life, it's easy to lose sight of our aspirations and desires, relegating them to the back burner as we focus on the immediate demands of our responsibilities. 

As a life coach, I typically focus on supporting my clients to (re)discover their values (what's most important to them), define and acheive their goals (which may or may not be the same as their dreams) and overcome limiting beliefs and other challenges that may be holding them back from realising their full potential. 

But having revisited my dreams, I also recognise how important it is to support my clients reconnect with their dreams and aspirations, even amidst the chaos of life's demands. Here's how I would approach exploring your dreams and bridging the gap between where you are now and where you aspire to be:

First and foremost, we would create a safe and supportive space for you to articulate your dreams and aspirations. Whether they're big, audacious goals or smaller, more immediate desires, every dream is valid and worthy of exploration.

Next, we would delve into the practicalities of your current situation. What are the important aspects of your life, such as your career, family, and personal responsibilities? Understanding these factors allows us to assess how your dreams align with your existing commitments and obligations.

From there, we would identify any gaps between your current reality and your desired future. What steps can you take to move closer to your dreams? What time frame do you have in mind? Are there any obstacles or challenges standing in your way? Together, we would develop a plan to overcome these barriers and make tangible progress towards your aspirations.

Crucially, our work would also involve considering the impact of your dreams on the important people in your life, such as your partner, children, and close family members. How can you pursue your dreams while still honoring your commitments and responsibilities to those you love? Finding this balance is key to creating a fulfilling and harmonious life.

Throughout this process, my role as a coach is to provide guidance, support, and accountability as you navigate the journey towards your dreams. Together, we will celebrate your successes, learn from setbacks, and continuously adapt and refine your path forward.

In conclusion, checking in with our dreams is not just a luxury reserved for moments of quiet contemplation—it's an essential practice that empowers us to live authentically and purposefully. By exploring your dreams, identifying the steps needed to realise them, and considering how they align with your life's priorities, you can create a roadmap to a more fulfilling and meaningful future. So, when did you last check in with your dreams?