Chasing Dreams in Real Life: The Messy, Beautiful Journey of Going After What You Want

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at one of those Pinterest-perfect quotes about dreams—"Just believe and it will happen!"—this post is for you. Because let’s be honest: chasing dreams isn’t always sunshine and success. It’s messy. It’s exhausting. It’s full of curveballs and doubts. But you know what? It’s also incredibly worth it.

Maybe you’re building a business while raising tiny humans. Maybe you’re working a 9–5 while secretly dreaming of something more. Or maybe you're just trying to figure out what your dream even is. Wherever you are on the journey, I see you. And I want you to know—you’re not alone.

The Reality of Chasing Dreams (No Filter Required)

Let me tell you a story. I had this dream—to start a podcast that made people feel seen, heard, and supported in their business and parenthood journeys. But life didn’t exactly roll out the red carpet. My second pregnancy was brutal. I had to leave work, spent more time in the hospital than I ever expected, and battled a ton of self-doubt.

There were so many moments I sat staring at my laptop wondering, “Am I even cut out for this?”

But here’s what I’ve learned: the only difference between people who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent—it’s persistence.

It’s not always glamorous. You know what is glamorous? A full night's sleep and hot coffee. But here we are—waking up early, staying up late, working on our dreams after everyone else is asleep.

How to Keep Going When Life Gets in the Way

Here are 5 practical, real-life tips to help you keep moving forward, even when life throws chaos your way:

1. Reframe the Struggle

Instead of seeing setbacks as signs you’re failing, see them as signs that you’re trying. Every obstacle means you’re in the game. Every success story has had some version of this moment.

2. Find Your Why

Your "why" is your anchor. When things get hard—and they will—return to it. Write it down, put it on your phone, stick it on your bathroom mirror. Let it remind you what you’re fighting for.

3. Break It Down

Big dreams can feel overwhelming. So don’t look at the whole mountain—just look at the next step. One email. One phone call. One post. Tiny, consistent action builds massive momentum.

4. Rest, Don’t Quit

Burnout is real (hello, episode 7!). Taking a break is not failure—it’s wisdom. Know when to pause. Know when to breathe. But quitting? That’s not on the table.

5. Build Your Village

Surround yourself with people who get it. Find a community that believes in your dream even when you don’t. Whether online or in-person, your circle matters.

You’re Doing Better Than You Think

If you take one thing from this post, let it be this: You are capable. You are strong. And your dreams are worth fighting for.

Even if it’s slow. Even if it’s messy. Keep going. Because every single step is one closer to the life you want.

So, what’s your dream? And what’s one small step you’re taking toward it this week?

Share it with us on Instagram @caffeinatedchaospodcast, or click here to submit it anonymously to our Sip and Share segment.

Let’s cheer each other on, because chasing dreams is always better with a little caffeine and a lot of community.

Until next time, keep sipping and keep going

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