What is your one big dream in life? That’s your North Star.
If you could summarize the main goals for your career and life, what would that be? For example, if you’re a writer, your north star could be to publish a book. If you’re a business owner, it could be to build your business to reach a particular size. For a movie maker, it could be to win an oscar. A music artist it could be to get a record deal. An Athlete to win an Olympic gold medal. Your north star shouldn’t be something you think other people want or expect, but something you choose.
In figuring out your North Star, don’t be vague. “I want to achieve happiness” is a good goal but, how do you know when you reach it? Your north star should be quantifiable and measurable. Once you know what your north star is, you must not lose sight of it. Stay the course.
Little drops of water make a mighty ocean.
For us creative types, the nature of the industry and type of work means that sometimes our careers are volatile and malleable. This isn’t a bad thing, however, it can get quite daunting. Being a creative freelancer of any kind or an entrepreneur comes with highs and lows. Seasons of boom could be followed by periods of quiet and scarcity. It also comes with longsuffering, behind the scene hard work, long hours, and countless tasks. We could work hours on projects that get only minimal exposure or none at all. In periods like this, gazing upon your north star helps you tolerate the not so great moments. Doing the hard work will pull you closer to achieving your dreams.
You might not see immediate results or get applause for everything you produce, but your efforts are not futile. It all contributes to your body of work, and it’s another brick in the tower of your dreams. Little drops of water make a mighty ocean. Or maybe you need to take a pause from this dream to something else or pursue a different goal. That doesn’t mean your dream is dead or forgotten. You can go back to it and perhaps with more wisdom and experience. Delay is not denial.
As you go about your work, your projects, and even daily activity, ensure that everything you do steadily pulls you closer to your north star. Do not get distracted. Most importantly, do not get discouraged.[/vc_column_text]
