During times of transition, the ability to make a connection with others—especially your partner or someone you love—may be the deciding factor in whether or not you make progress and maintain momentum in the pursuit of your dreams. Here are specific tips to get you started on the right track.
Communicate clearly
Share your hopes and dreams—and allow your partner equal time to share—in order to make a connection and build a healthy relationship. Ask questions without being judgmental. Keep talking/listening to gain clarity. Give your spouse specific examples of ways they can provide support for your dreams. Inquire about what you can do to be supportive of your partner’s dreams.
Collect information
Explore the possibilities for achieving your dreams. Search online and at your local library for wisdom from those who have pursued similar goals. Share the discovery process and/or the discoveries with your partner to strengthen your connection with each other.
If you are contemplating a move for work or retirement, use the Dig Deeper questions in Where Will You Retire? A Retirement Guide And Exercises For Deciding Where To Retire, Buy A Second Home, Or Relocate* to clarify what appeals to you and your partner.
Compromise
When you make a connection, you imply that you value the other person’s input. Sometimes s/he will disagree with your feelings, ideas, or plans. Learn how to compromise in a cooperative way by discussing values, non-negotiables, and what you each can do to merge your strengths and weaknesses to make a stronger “you.”
Commit
Strengthen the connection you have made by making a commitment to your dreams. Plan your next steps. Commit time and resources. Continue to be honest and open. Ask for cooperation, support, and understanding. Be accountable for your actions. Find a mentor or support group. Save the money you will need to achieve your goal.
Committing includes being adventuresome. (Notice I use the word “adventuresome” which suggests trying something new instead of “adventurous” which implies a degree of risk.) Brainstorm possibilities to further make a connection with your partner. Learn new skills, together or independently. Stretch and grow.
Capture it
Write down or record your dreams. Journaling and the written word are powerful reminders of where we have been and where we want to go. For others, a picture is worth a thousand words.
Celebrate
In the journey of achieving your dreams, celebrate the connections you make with others and the opportunities you have to help someone you love stretch, grow, and find purpose in life. Your relationship is worth celebrating.
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