Honor your dreams on March 11, because it's National Dream Day
If you're reading this on March 11, happy National Dream Day! This inspiring annual holiday serves as a reminder that our dreams are achievable with determination and effort. No matter how old or how young you are, this holiday encourages us to check in with ourselves when it comes to our longest- and deepest-held dreams. Are we taking actionable steps to attain them, or did we get a little sidetracked? It's OK if you're a little sidetracked — what better day to get on track?!
The origins of this day come from Robert Muller, sometimes called 'The Millennium Man.' Born on March 11, 1923, Muller was a former Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and a fervent advocate for world peace and global cooperation. His experiences during WWII deeply influenced his commitment to fostering a more peaceful world. In 1986, after retiring from the U.N., Muller became the chancellor of the University for Peace in Costa Rica, an institution he helped establish.
Here are some ways you can commemorate your own dreams on National Dream Day this year:
Reflect on your dreams, and set goals. Take the time to honestly contemplate your personal and professional dreams. Are you on track? Write down small actionable steps you can take in the next day to move forward — remember, small, actionable steps work best. Forward motion matters most.
Create a vision board. Gather images, quotes, objects, and symbols that represent your aspirations. Then display your vision board in a prominent place to serve as your daily motivation.
Hold a 'Bench of Dreams' ritual. The real bench sits near Muller's residence in Costa Rica, but you don't need to go all the way there to observe this simple ritual. Find a beautifully quiet spot near you. Then, simply hold a pretty pebble in each hand, close your eyes, and envision your dreams. Afterward, throw one pebble into a garden and keep the other as a reminder of your dreams.
Support others' dreams. Engage with your friends, family, and other communities to talk about their goals and aspirations. You never know … maybe you're an aspiring drummer, and your gym buddy needs one for his weekend garage band. You never know!
National Dream Day serves as a poignant reminder of the power of dreams and the impact they can have on individual lives and the broader world. By dedicating time to reflect on our aspirations and supporting others in theirs, we contribute to a more hopeful and motivated society.
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