Dreaming Your Life Away

What is the difference between visualization and daydreaming? Daydreaming is the step between night dreaming and visualization. It is fuzzy, unclear, and unfocused. Daydreaming can be a form of relaxation. It is thinking about the future, but with no strong intent or concentration. There's nothing wrong with that. It's just that it's more of a wish than a plan.

When you daydream or make a wish, you're really asking for a miracle. You want something to happen without having to work for it. It's as if you are standing in the darkness, eyes shut tight, saying, "I wish someone would notice me!" Why would they? It's only when you open your eyes and see what's happening around you, when you step into the light, and when you take action that your "wish" has even a chance of coming true.

Visualization is seeing those steps before you take them. It is very specific. Daydreams help you "think big," while foresight helps you break the big things down into specific steps you can take to accomplish them.

Cherish your visions and your dreams, as they are the children of your soul, the blueprints of your ultimate achievements.

—Napoleon Hill,
author

Don't let your dreams fade away. Sometimes they get pushed aside by the more practical aspects of day-to-day living. That's to be expected. We can't spend every minute planning for the future; we must take care of ourselves and our families today. Just know that your dreams are important, too. You may have to hold onto them for awhile, but the fruit they will eventually bear will be worth the wait.