When we were children, we were constantly focusing on large, ambitious dreams. Often they were dreams we knew we could accomplish, right then and there. I always had some grandiose plan, such as: turning the woods and creek by our house into a special land. My friends and I went there to rule the earth. We each had our own special job. We were constantly on a mission.

My 7 year-old nephew is constantly on a mission, as well. The difference is that he has the mentality of about a 35 year-old. His plans typically involve saving the planet… If he could go down to the gulf and syphon out the oil ounce by ounce, he would stay until it was done. Seriously.

And, often his dreams involve creating, or fixing, different mechanical apparatuses. MONTHS ago he got the idea of building a raft, like Huck Fin and Tom Sawyer, and setting sail in the cove, at the family lake house.

Passion and determination filled his heart, and, months later, he hadn’t forgotten. When you’re a kid, and you have a dream, nothing will stop you…

So what about when you’re an adult? I know I’ve gotten on my soap box, many times, about doing what you love, and following your dreams. But, what about the smaller dreams you have? Like: planting a community garden, conquering a triathlon, or heading up an event to raise money for a cure?… We all seem to get stuck in our careers and family lives, and often forget there is so much more we have to contribute to this life. Don’t let those two things define you.

Dream like a child.
Follow through.
Then set sail.

And leave everyone else in awe of what you’ve accomplished.