Coaches Corner: Have your dreams been crushed?

Have you ever had a dream of yours crushed…maybe even as a child? Many of you have, and in retrospect, you have forgotten how to dream.

Do you often feel stuck in your current vocation or life in general? Zippia, the career expert, states that 65% of U. S. workers are happy in their jobs, but only 20% are passionate about their jobs. That leaves 35% who are stuck. Likewise, only 49% of American workers report being “very satisfied with their work,” while 30% are “somewhat satisfied.”

There is nothing wrong with finding fulfillment at work, but passion goes a step further. Could people be afraid of change, fearful of unknown outcomes, and resist pursuing their dreams?

I will often stay at different hotels under the same brand to find the best in hospitality. After working a 12-hour duty day, I checked into a hotel. The shuttle driver who picked us up at the airport was conscientious, helpful, and caring. While checking in, I asked the front desk if I could have some bottled water. He proceeded to tell me the hotel was entirely out. A bit later, I talked to the shuttle driver, who mentioned that he was embarrassed that the hotel did not have any water...so he took it upon himself to buy some that day. Small gestures add up to a significant impact! He understood that this situation was not about him, but it was about serving others.

The following day, I walked to the breakfast area, and what I witnessed was unacceptable in any public environment. I looked for an attendant and could not find anyone. I began to question what is happening in our workforce today. I wonder and think about people who take jobs that are not in their gifting, and it doesn’t excite them nor fill their passion tank.

Taking a job that does not suit you or that you are not passionate about may be a lack of respect for oneself and others. Your purpose utilizes your passion for a dream you can pursue. It’s up to you to be intentional and diligent in transforming your vision into your reality.

English author and poet James Allen wrote, “ Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become. Your vision is the promise of what you shall one day be. Your ideal is the prophecy of what you shall at last unveil.”

Most people believe that they are not capable or enough and therefore feel stuck in life. But the truth is, YOU are capable, YOU are enough, and YOU have the power to change the trajectory of your life and future.

I believe that everybody has at least one thing they are passionate about. Passion infuses hope into a hopeless situation and, in return, gives you hope. There is no magic involved in seeing your dreams come to fruition. Work is involved, and it’s up to you to take action. How can you turn your dream into your vision? What would it look like? Do you need to make changes in your daily routines? Are you willing to start something new?

The best time to start is when you are motivated and buzzing with ideas. Don’t delay getting started until everything is perfect and in order or you have everything you need. You do not need to know the how...you need to be willing to take action and start somewhere. As you take action, something beautiful happens - you inspire and encourage others to fulfill their purpose and dreams.

As beautifully stated by TD Jakes, “If you can’t figure out your purpose, figure out your passion, for your passion will lead you right into your purpose.”

Trust God in the process, no matter how long it takes for your dreams and desires to be fulfilled. He placed that passion, fire, and desire in your heart.

Whatever holds you back, know that all things are possible with God. We are reminded in Matthew 19:26, “ With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Let that be your beautiful reminder that God is in your court in everything you set out to do.