This post is not political. I never discuss politics on my blog. However, I was watching the Republican National Convention last week, and am watching the Democratic National Convention this week. Regardless of party affiliation, I love this quote from Ivanka Trump. Her father gave her this advice years ago.
“If you’re going to be thinking anyway, you might as well think big.”
For me, it’s not about building the Roman Colosseum or skyscrapers in New York. It’s about being the best that I can be. Taking the initiative to find ways to be successful. And my goals shouldn’t be limited. I don’t want them to stop at a level where I’m confident I can achieve them. I want to push myself out of my comfort zone. Be adventurous. Aspire for more. Dream bigger. And find a way to reach those dreams.
When things don’t go my way, or don’t fall into place easily — it doesn’t mean I need to forget about my goals and trash them. It means I have to find another way to get there. I remind myself to explore all avenues before claiming I’ve reached a dead-end.
There are times I’ve started to pursue something I think I really want, but come to realize it’s not for me. And that’s okay. My efforts are not a failure or a waste of time.
I consider that successful — when I find out what’s right for me, and what isn’t.
My husband and I have tried to pass this message on to our daughters. For instance, it’s hard to pick a major in college and stick with it for the rest of your life. It’s okay to change. That happens when we learn and grow. Our paths take all kinds of twists and turns. That’s what makes life interesting.
Whether this relates to a career, a relationship, a new home, or getting fit and healthy, there’s nothing lost in asking questions and taking baby steps to begin pursuing our passions. We have to start somewhere.
Think big and go for it!
Image courtesy of here
Well said.
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Thank you Erica 🙂
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Sure thing, Jenny.
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So inspiring n insightful Jenny, love this
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Thank you so much, I appreciate that!
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Reblogged this on Angie Dokos.
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Wow, this is really inspiring! It’s true that reaching our goals might require taking some unexpected detours. But it’s never in vain – we always learn something on the way. Great post!
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I agree, there’s always something to learn about ourselves along the journey, whether it works out or doesn’t. Thanks for your kind words!
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This is inspiring and I love it! ❤
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Thank you! 🙂
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Great post. Motivating – which I needed to hear today.
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Thank you! Glad to hear it 🙂
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Such a great thought. I try to pass this idea on to my college age son too. Just go for it. Dream big and go for it. It’s a scary place to be and I want him to focus on his dreams and passions not on what he thinks he should be studying. It took me a long time to think big and I hope I can spare him some wasted energy.
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Exactly! I feel the same. Sounds like you’re a great example for your son 🙂
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Absolutely true. Why think small, I’ve always encouraged my children to follow their passions and dreams. Great thought, great post.
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Thank you! I think it’s really important to encourage kids to follow their passions… It makes for a happier, more fulfilled person 🙂
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Absolutely true. 🙂
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This is a very thoughtful message, Jenny. I especially love the picture that you chose at the end, which reminds me not to compare myself to the “perfection” that I think I see in others! Thank you!
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Thanks Lulu, I’m glad you liked the image at the end. At first glance, I just thought it was cute. Then I looked at the deeper meaning, and loved it!
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Powerful;. Love this.
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Thank you!
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loved the quote and this post as well
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Thank you! 🙂
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