When is the last time your life felt carefree? Perhaps back in your childhood when no one needed anything from you and you could sleep late, dance to your favourite Michael Jackson song, or ride your bike until you were breathless? When a good day meant fun instead of productivity?

The other day I face planted into a brick wall – metaphorically speaking that is – and remembered how exhausting dream chasing can be. I had hoped my recent trip to LA would result in funding for the foundation and by the final day, I had to face the truth that it hadn’t. Instead of feeling excited about the future and proud of how far we’ve come, I stood nose to nose with a higher wall that must be climbed. I wanted to punch the wall, the obstacles, or really anyone in my path. Thankfully, I slept it off, woke up the next day, and reminded myself that I don’t have to scale the whole wall today. I just have to move an inch in the right direction.

Maybe you know what I’m talking about? Starting anything – a business, a non-profit, or even a relationship comes with unexpected frustrations and moments of feeling like it will N-E-V-E-R happen. We push and strive and challenge ourselves – all necessary steps in turning dreams into reality – but sometimes we stay so focused on the end goal that we forget to leave any room for joy, laugher, or fun.  (more…)