I have seen my fair share of people working hard to have a happy life.  There seems to be a universal campaign for accomplishing goals through back-breaking work, blood, sweat, and tears.  Many of us have grown up with the idea that if we could just do more by working longer or harder than we would finally reach the platform of success.  And while I certainly believe in the benefit of (inspired) action, I feel like something is missing in this formula for a successful life.

People that know me, know that I have always been a doer in life.  I have always focused on doing the next thing and looking for the next step in my dreams and only recently have I been able to understand the importance of non-action, and allowing the space for our dreams to breathe and grow.

Not sure what I mean?  Let me explain.

When we decide we are going to move forward with a new goal, career, or project typically there is some sort of planning phase.  After the planning phase comes the execution.  And since we are so accustomed to instant gratification in our everyday living, we seem to be chomping at the bit to make things happen by working long hours and in some cases spreading ourselves too thin.  The fear of failing has caused us to overcompensate in the action arena to a point that we never allow ourselves (and our dreams) a chance to breathe.

I know I have struggled with this many times in my life where I want instant results for the work I am putting in, but the reality is things take time. 

I have also learned that when I am able to take a step back and stop measuring my progress (or lack thereof in some cases), I find things almost magically happen.  The right people flow into my life effortlessly and the next inspirational nugget appears before my very eyes and each time it happens I am reminded of the importance of allowing my dreams to breathe and grow.

I was reminded of that just a few weeks ago.

While I was having a conversation with a friend about some things I needed/wanted to take care of for my business, I mentioned needing to find someone to design my logo.  I had actually thought about it several times, but wasn’t trying to make anything happen with it as I had other things that I was working on.  About an hour after that conversation I saw a post on FB from a friend of mine that said “Designing a logo!”.  I almost fell out of my chair.  I couldn’t believe it!  I immediately sent my friend a message and inquired about her services and found that not only was it affordable, but she does absolutely amazing work!

Was it just dumb luck?  Or, did I allow enough space and time for things to unfold in the most organic and perfect way for me?

I truly believe that by giving my dreams/needs the space they need to grow and evolve, the resources I need will continue to unfold in the most beautiful of ways.

Not sure it will work for you?  Try it out!

The next time you find yourself forcing something to happen or working long hours trying desperately to make something happen, take a break.  Step back from it and leave it be for a while and open yourself to what you see and hear around you.  Just be easy about it and allow your next inspirational nugget present itself to you.  I promise you it will.

Have you had something like this happen for you recently?  I would love to hear how your dreams are unfolding as you give them room to breathe and grow.  Share your thoughts in the comments below!