When You Don't Have a Plan.. But You Have A Dream

Dreams Are Directional

My mother used to tell me, “Dreaming is free.” So I dreamed—big, bold, sometimes impossible dreams.

Looking back, I realize those dreams weren’t just ambitions. They were lifelines.

I dreamed because I needed a way out—a way to escape the poverty, instability, and silence that surrounded me. I didn’t have mentors or a roadmap, but I had imagination, and that was enough to spark hope.

Back then, I didn’t know what “executive coaching” was. I couldn’t have told you the difference between corporate strategy and survival. But I knew this: 

There had to be more. More freedom. More impact. More meaning.

That’s the thing about dreams—they don’t always make logical sense at first. They’re not linear. They don’t always come with a clear “how.”

Dreams can point the way. They stir something deep inside that says: You were made for more than this. What I’ve learned over the years is this:

Dreaming isn’t just wishful thinking.  It’s intention in motion.

It’s our soul’s way of giving us a future to walk toward—even when the present feels unbearable.

And yet, I’ve also seen how quickly those dreams can get buried.

I work with high-performing leaders every day—brilliant, accomplished people who’ve checked every box…except the one that lights them up. Their dreams often lie dormant under layers of responsibility, fear, or the story that says, “I should be grateful for what I already have.” 

“Is This Real… or Just Fear Talking?”

Our minds are powerful storytellers. They can create stories of doubt, worst-case scenarios, and self-protection. But our minds can also create bold visions of possibility. 

Ask yourself: Is this a real concern—or a fear-based projection?

Courage isn’t about being fearless. It’s about choosing what matters—even when fear is present. But here’s what I remind my clients—and myself:

Your dream doesn’t have to be practical. Or perfect. Or polished. It just has to be pursued.

Living Purposefully

Dreams are how we are how we give life our purpose. They ask us to stretch. To believe. To begin—even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

And yes, fear will tag along. But if the dream is still whispering to you, even after all this time… That means it still matters.

So I’ll ask you the same question I often ask myself: 

What’s the dream you buried because life got in the way?

Maybe it’s a dream you’ve buried. Maybe it’s a courageous action you’ve been avoiding. Maybe it’s time. Let your dreams guide you. Let purpose pull you forward. And let leading in service of others be the reason you rise. And what’s one small step you can take to reclaim it?

You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to begin.

Even if you don’t know the whole path. Even if you’re afraid. Even if you think it’s too late. It’s not too late… 

Because dreaming is free—but acting on it? That’s where your freedom lives. 

Final Thought

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi 

This is the kind of leadership I believe in: not driven by ego or fear but by courage, clarity, and service. May you dream again, act bravely, and serve with purpose. 

Keep dreaming. —Susan

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