Last updated on September 12th, 2024 at 04:59 pm
This past year of pursuing dreams has brought me an incredible gift: the freedom to dream without limits.
I wanted the freedom to rewrite my life, evolve into someone new, face my fears, make my dreams a reality, and inspire others to do the same.
My journey as a motivational speaker and writer has given me the strength to make remarkable changes in my life. It’s true what they say: dreaming big has the power to transform everything.
Today marks the anniversary of my personal blog, and I’m just 10 posts shy of 250. If this were a book, I’d be 240 pages deep—living proof of what a determined heart can accomplish when the dream is strong enough.
My blog was born from the memory of a dear friend who passed away in September 2011. I can still hear her voice as we sit together, talking about our dreams. She once said, “Sumia, you should start a blog! You have so much to share with the world.” I brushed it off, saying, “I will… when I’m ready.”
But after she died, her words echoed in my heart. I even had a dream where she urged me to stop wasting time. I woke up filled with grief but also with a new sense of urgency. That night, I channeled my pain into action and created my blog, Just PurSUE It, a nickname gifted to me by friends who believed in my vision.
That was my sign to chase my dreams and help others pursue theirs, too. Blogging taught me early on that structure was key. So, I created social media-themed days to inspire my readers:
- Motivational Monday: Inspire people to embrace the opportunities of a fresh week and replace the dread of Mondays with excitement.
- Technology Tuesday: Connect with tech industry experts to share insights that show how innovation and change create opportunity.
- Thankful Tuesday: Gratitude shifts everything. I celebrate the blessings we often overlook and remind others to do the same.
- Women Wednesday: I showcase and celebrate women worldwide, highlighting their stories and contributions. It’s led to the launch of my Inspirational Women’s Initiative in South Africa, where women give back to youth.
- Thursday Thought-of-the-Day: A reflection on key lessons learned each week. I invite readers to turn challenges into wisdom and find peace in life’s trials.
- Feel-Good Friday: I partner with a Life/Business Coach who offers wisdom on how to wrap up the week on a positive, hopeful note.
Being a positive voice online has become second nature to me. It’s amazing how focusing on the good changes your life and makes you fearless. In many ways, my way of viewing a world filled with possibilities is one of my proudest achievements.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that with hard work, faith, and a little dreaming, anything is possible. Writing and motivational speaking have become my passions, and I feel called to do them.
For those who struggle with procrastination and fear–don’t give up! Even if you start with, “I don’t know what to do,” trust that ideas will flow forth.
Motivational speaking has given me permission to be unapologetically myself, sharing my hopes and dreams with audiences around South Africa. At first, it felt raw and intimidating, but over time, I found that speaking heals and empowers me.
Presenting in front of an audience can give you the confidence to become who you are meant to be.
I’ll leave you with a favorite quote by Canadian musical artist Paul Brandt: “Don’t tell me the sky’s the limit when there are footprints on the moon.”
So, this week, remember to just pursue it. You and your big dreams are worth it.
Sue Levy is the founder of the South African Just Pursue It Blog and Inspirational Women Initiative. She’s a motivational writer and media designer, who is obsessed with everything inspirational with a hint of geek. She thrives on teaching women how to be brave and take big chances on themselves. You can find Sue on her Twitter page @Sue_Levy.
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