“This is my dream, I’ll decide where it goes from here.”
This powerful statement, often attributed to Lewis Carroll, captures a profound truth. It speaks to the heart of personal agency and self-determination. The quote serves as a declaration of ownership over one’s own aspirations. Furthermore, it is a bold commitment to steer one’s own path. It reminds us that our dreams are not passive fantasies. Instead, they are active projects that we must direct and build ourselves.
The Dual Message: Ownership and Action
The quote breaks down into two essential ideas. First, the phrase “This is my dream” establishes complete ownership. It is an act of claiming your vision. You are not borrowing someone else’s goal or following a pre-written script. This acknowledgment is the crucial first step. Without it, a dream remains a vague wish. By declaring it as your own, you give it substance and importance. It becomes real and tangible in your mind.
Secondly, the line “I’ll decide where it goes from here” is a powerful call to action. This part moves beyond simple ownership into the realm of responsibility and control. It rejects the idea that fate, luck, or other people will determine your outcome. Instead, it places the power squarely in your hands. You become the captain of your ship. Consequently, you are the one who navigates the challenges and chooses the destination.
From Wonderland to Real Life
Lewis Carroll, the pen name for Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, was a master of creating unique worlds. He built the fantastical realm of Wonderland from his imagination. In his stories, logic is turned upside-down. Characters follow their own peculiar rules. This creative spirit mirrors the quote’s message perfectly. Carroll did not let conventional storytelling limit his vision. He decided where Alice’s journey would go, no matter how strange it seemed. This context adds another layer of meaning. It encourages us to embrace our unique visions, even if they seem unconventional to others.
This mindset is not just for authors or artists. It applies to every aspect of life. Whether you are starting a business, changing careers, or learning a new skill, the principle remains the same. Your ambition is your own personal Wonderland. You have the ultimate authority to shape its future. External opinions and obstacles will always exist. However, the final decision on how to react and proceed rests with you.
Embracing Your Inner Architect
Taking control of your dream is a core component of personal fulfillment. Psychologists often discuss the concept of an “internal locus of control.” This is the belief that you have control over the outcomes in your life. In contrast, an external locus of control means you believe outside forces dictate your life. Research consistently shows that people with a strong internal locus of control are more proactive and successful. . They actively work towards their goals because they believe their efforts matter. Source
Adopting this quote as a mantra can help you cultivate this empowering mindset. It encourages you to stop waiting for permission or for the perfect moment. Instead, you start making conscious choices that align with your vision. Every small step, every decision, becomes an act of building your dream. This proactive stance transforms you from a passive spectator into the active architect of your life.
How to Steer Your Dream
Living by this quote requires conscious effort. Here are a few practical ways to apply its wisdom:
- Define Your Vision: Get crystal clear on what your dream actually is. Write it down. Visualize the outcome. A clear target is much easier to aim for.
- Make a Plan: A dream without a plan is just a wish. Break down your large goal into smaller, manageable steps. This makes the journey less overwhelming and provides a clear roadmap.
- Take Consistent Action: The key is to move forward, even when you don’t feel motivated. Small, consistent actions build momentum over time. Therefore, each step you take reinforces your control over the dream’s direction.
- Embrace Adaptability: Deciding where your dream goes doesn’t mean having a rigid, unchangeable plan. It means being the one who makes adjustments when you encounter unexpected challenges or opportunities. You remain in the driver’s seat.
Ultimately, this quote is a liberating reminder. Your life’s journey is your own creation. While you cannot control every external event, you always control your response. You decide the next step. You decide when to pivot. And most importantly, you decide what success looks like for you. Embrace your role as the director of your dream and start shaping its path today.