Is it a problem, challenge, opportunity, BID- blessing in disguise, or AFGO?

When one tugs at a single thing in nature, we find it attached to the rest of the world.

~John Muir

 

In a Harvard study published in 2010, researchers determined one of the many functions of dreams (ordinary dreams) is to problem-solve. And who among us does not have some problem to solve on a daily basis? Ok, maybe you don’t like the word “problem”. Perhaps you prefer to say challenge, opportunity, blessing in disguise, or AFGO (Another F*#kin% Growth Opportunity). In any case, remembered dreams, according to Harvard, can help you to become a better navigator of life’s little (or big, as the case may be) obstacle courses.

In this study, the fine folks at Harvard discovered that your dreams don’t have to make sense or resemble actual guidance in order for it to have a beneficial effect on your life. It is scientifically proven that by simply maintaining a connection with a remembered dream and allowing it to color the background of your thinking, you will be better off in your waking life. However, here are things you can do to raise the bar:

1. After writing your dreams in your journal this morning, pick one element from your dream and meditate on it (i.e. If you dream of a special kiss, an exhilarating car chase, or an encounter with a departed loved one).

For example you might explore in detail the feel of your dream lover’s lips; wind in your hair as the car sped through traffic; or the creased brow and all-knowing look in your grandmother’s eyes. One dream detail can ensure you are deeply connected to the world of your dream, and thus benefit from its guidance and genius throughout the day.

2.  Share it with your dream buddy or at least write it in your own dream journal.

3. Court the feeling tone (let it ride shotgun) as you go to work, drive the carpool, go to the store, and go about your daily round.

4. Pay attention to the way this one detail of your dream colors your life.

What dream detail will you marinate in today? How does it make you feel?

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Excerpted from It’s All In Your Dreams (Conari Press). Once you buy your copy, click here to receive $4,000 worth of fr*ee dreamy gifts throughout the month of May.

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Join the conversation! Post your dream on Dreams Cloud, then tweet it using #DreamChallenge.

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