A few years ago, I took the Strengths Finder test to have a better understanding of myself. I wanted to figure out why I did things the way I did them and why I liked things the way I liked them. Ultimately, I was looking for something that confirmed personality traits I already knew but couldn’t quite place my finger on.

I found that one of my top strengths is “Futuristic.” This means I’m inspired by the future and what could be, and I energize others with visions of the future. I had no idea this was an actual strength, but I’d been visualizing a future for myself for as long as I could remember.

When I was little, I would always imagine myself being and doing other things. I would envision myself making the cheer squad in high school. I would picture myself being an actress in Hollywood. I would let my mind wander to all the possibilities before going to sleep. This actually helped me get a good night’s rest! I didn’t realize it then, but all those thoughts helped enhance my ability to create scenarios in my head—boy, could I go down rabbit holes!

It’s kind of sad, but as I got older I stopped visualizing things before I went to bed. It’s almost as if I’ve convinced myself that since I’m an adult, my life already is how it’s going to be. Part of me felt guilty for picturing a different life. Did it mean I wasn’t grateful for the life I currently lead? Because I was (and am) extremely grateful. Did it mean I was taking for granted my relationship, my home, my business, and my family? Because I value those things above all else.

Another part of me felt like, what’s the point? Almost like no matter how much I picture things a certain way, the likelihood of those things happening is small.

But those feelings of guilt and pessimism are limiting beliefs. Who says things can’t be different? Who says I can’t enjoy the life I have but still strive for more or better? No one is telling me that but me. And you know what? I’m not going to block my own blessings. If I can visualize my way to even more happiness, why wouldn’t I?!

Maybe it’s the fact that I’m getting older (I’ll be 35 in September). Maybe it’s the fact that I know that I’m in control of my own destiny. Maybe it’s the fact that I believe I am—and every other person on this Earth is— deserving of happiness. I want to get back to visualizing my way to my dream life.

I want to look into the depths of my own soul and pinpoint the things I truly desire. I want to see them for myself. I want to envision those things as if I already have them. I want to do the things I need to in the present to make those things a reality for my future.

So, here it goes…

I’m celebrating another birthday. I’m the healthiest I’ve ever been. I feel so comfortable in my own body. I’m accompanied by my loving life partner. We landed in Palm Springs a few days ago, and I’m getting ready to close on a second home here—a nice birthday present to myself! I’ve always dreamed of owning a home in Palm Springs, and it’s finally happening. We get into the car just as the sun is rising over the desert mountains. Hues of orange, pink and purple fill the sky. We’re headed to our favorite diner in Palm Springs for breakfast before we go to the Title company’s office. I’m filled to the brim with gratitude, so much so that tears are starting to form. All those years visualizing this moment, and the day has finally come.

One thing I already know about myself is that owning a second home in Palm Springs is a life goal of mine. So, taking the time to play out that scenario in my head leaves me with so much hope. I see every step of it. I feel every step of it. Now, off to make it happen.

Let’s dream big together. What do you visualize for yourself and your future? (Be specific!)

Here’s to seeing, believing and achieving all we could ever want and need!