Most of us have dreams of a different kind of life, a better life. But, how many of us are really allowing ourselves to dream big - really big?

Some of us are bound to belittle our dreams because of the mental baggage we carry. We didn’t start out that way as children - we, unfortunately, have succumbed to fear, or worry, or the negative influence of others who played a dominant role in our lives. This negativity can come from teachers, parents, friends, or bosses.

What we all crave, however, is a life out of the ordinary; a life that isn’t shackled by old garbage or negative thinking of our skills or abilities. In the past, you may have been told that you are not capable, or you lack the skills. If you continue to believe this, you won’t go anywhere - your dreams will remain only a fleeting thought that continues to haunt you.

What you need to do is dream big. Plant the big dream in the universe so that you feel it with all your heart. Don’t let yourself stray from this dream by flirting from one dream to the next. If you do, nothing will happen because you are not focused on one significant dream.

Once you have decided on the right dream, a dream that really excites you, take action toward it. The first action or actions don’t have to be giant steps either. Each little step you take will help you get closer and closer. For example, let’s say you want to open your own pet store. You love animals, and you love the idea of putting your efforts into a business that you can share your love of animals with like minded individuals. Start off by researching how you could set up a store of your own. Look, for example, for the option of buying into a franchise.

If you find a franchise, find out how much you would need as a down payment. Look to see what your competition is in your immediate area; do some scouting around to see where a good location would be; ask your friends that have animals, where they buy their pet supplies, and what attracts them to a certain store.

A good dream, turned into a goal, should cause you to be a little anxious but excite you a lot. Dream big, act big - take those steps one at a time to help propel you forward.

Catherine Pulsifer is one of the editors of Goal Setting 4 Success a motivational site dedicated to your success by setting goals. Stories, quotes, tips and more! http://www.goal4success.com