The Pitfalls of Not Following Your Heart
It's easy to push aside something our heart tells us it wants, whether big life-altering dreams or smaller tweaks we'd like to make in our daily lives. Voices from inside and out say our dreams are silly, or unrealistic, or impossible. And those voices can convince us it's "not the right time," or that we don't really want that dream.
You can lie to your friends about what your heart wants, but you can't lie to your heart. And that lie risks you waking up every day to a life that feels mundane and uninspiring. The alarm clock rings, and you drag yourself out of bed, not because you want to, but because you have to. Because you're living a life where you're not being the person you really want to be. Your heart knows it.
I get it. I've been there. It's not because there's something wrong with you. It's a very human thing to do. It may seem harmless or even noble to put off your heart, especially if you "give up' your needs for your children. Yet, not pursuing the things that truly matter to you can have profound negative effects. It can manifest in various forms, including chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression.
None of this is good for you or your children.
My mother passed away several years back. She had a lot of dreams in her life, but never the confidence and self-belief to pursue them. Yet she always told me that I should and could follow my dreams. Did I? No. Because I became the person she taught me to be.
I became someone who told other people they should and could follow there dreams but who didn't follow her own.
That's how it works. Others learn as much, or more, from your actions as they do from your words. If you aren't making yourself and your heart a priority in your life, you are encouraging your children (and others) to do the same. Be the change you want to see in your children.
The Contrast: Envisioning a Life of Pursuit
It doesn't have to be a drastic change. You don't have to quit your job tomorrow and move to Santa Fe to be a painter. Almost always, small tweaks in your current life are enough to make your heart feel heard and your life feel purposeful.
Whether it's singing, painting, being a foodie, or going minimalist in your living space, the act of pursuing what you love brings a unique vitality and joy to your life. And the journey catalyzes an improved feeling of self-love, deservedness, and confidence.
That's the power of realigning with the person you truly are. Let me break down some examples of the changes you'll experience when you finally say "yes" to your heart.
Enhanced Sense of Purpose
- Pursuing a dream gives your life direction and meaning. The Blue Zones, regions known for the longevity and health of their residents, highlight having a sense of purpose as a key factor in living a longer, healthier life. When you follow your passion, you wake up with a reason to get out of bed, which can contribute to overall well-being and happiness.
Emotional Well-being
- Engaging in activities you love releases endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators. For instance, singing has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and create a sense of community. This emotional uplift can buffer against the daily stresses of life, leading to a more resilient and positive outlook.
Physical Health Benefits
- The physical act of engaging in something you love keeps your mind active, can reduce bad habits like the urge to snack or to squat on the couch for long periods of time, and can even boost your immune system.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
- Chasing your dreams often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and taking risks. This journey fosters personal growth, resilience, and self-discovery. As you overcome challenges and achieve milestones, you build confidence and learn more about your strengths and capabilities.
Building Meaningful Connections
- When you engage in your passions, you often find a community of like-minded individuals who share your interests. These connections can lead to deep, meaningful relationships and a strong support network. Whether through a choir, a writing group, or a cooking class, the shared pursuit of a common goal fosters camaraderie and belonging.
Empower Yourself to Live a Life of Purpose
It's easy to get caught up in the societal narrative that equates success with monetary gain. However, the true measure of a fulfilling life lies in the joy and satisfaction you derive from your daily activities.
By giving yourself permission to pursue your dreams, you embrace a life of purpose and passion, regardless of financial outcomes. And yet, being happier in your overall life often equates to greater success in your work life!
No more waiting!
Living a life aligned with your passions can lead to greater overall happiness and well-being. So, take that first step. Sing that song. Write that book. Paint that picture. Allow yourself to dream, and more importantly, to chase those dreams with all your heart.
The journey itself is the reward, bringing color, meaning, and joy to every day.
If you could use some guidance determining how to move forward toward a more purpose-driven life (including singing or not), please schedule a chat with me. It's free of charge and free of any pressure to work together in the future. Let me help you think things out!
