Lately, I’ve been thinking about what inspires me. What inspires me to be a writer? What inspires me to work hard even when I feel lost and far behind my dream? That answer is not simple.

I guess when you’re young you think without any restrictions; you think you can do anything. The truth is, you can, but it takes a lot more work than you would think.

One of my dreams has already come true; the chance to be in New York, to say that I live there, and making the people who love me proud of me. I never knew that dream would come true so quickly, so in response I had to come up with another one to accomplish in the future. Turns out, it’s not exactly easy to pick out just one. While I brainstormed, I realized I had a lot more dreams than I thought possible. I know that not all of them will come true, but that doesn’t mean I can’t try.

So far, here’s my “life goals” list:

• Visit every continent (except maybe Antarctica…too cold!)
• Write a book
• Live in New York City, Barcelona and Africa
• Bungee Jump
• Join the Peace Corps
• Adopt a baby from a different country
• Get married

Those are just the big ones. I have many other detailed goals that I hope to accomplish soon. I realize that life is short, but that in no way means that we don’t have enough time to do everything we want. What is the world here for if not for the taking?

Many people like to be realistic. I say that’s a drawback. I’m pretty optimistic and I believe that things will work out for the best, no matter what, so it’s okay to dive into what you want. Just be prepared to fight for it.

Back to what inspires me.

I inspire myself.

My friends inspire me.

This list inspires me.

A reflection in a puddle on the sidewalk inspires me.

The cloud that looks like a sail boat inspires me.

Kids and their laughter inspire me.

Pain inspires me.

Jealousy and envy inspire me.

Sadness and love inspire me.

Faith inspires me.

Music inspires me.

Reading inspires me.

The feeling you get when someone tells you they love you inspires me.

You get the point. I’m inspired by life. The question is what inspires you? Do you have a goal you’re working toward? I know you may be in high school or college and it may seem like the real world is a long way away, but trust me, it’s closer than you think. I’m not saying plan. I never plan anything. I’m saying think, feel and create. Everyone wants something different. Always believe you can achieve it. Always believe in yourself.

-DeAnna

Tags: college blog, dreams, encouragement, how to follow your dreams, inspirational story, inspire, life goals, love yourself