I have witnessed our society attempt to discuss prevalent issues surrounding the intersections of race, sports, technology, social activism, culture, politics, and business in our society.

In my reflection, I began to think of the qualities that encompass the true essence of a transformational, enlightened and servant leader. I realized that all great leaders are “Dream Makers.”

Dream Makers dream of things that never were and ask why not. They allow their genuine curiosity to be their wings while never losing sight of their childlike spirit.

Over my 80 years of living and serving others, I have focused on nurturing and acting upon the intuition of my dreams. The following six steps I use daily, to turn my dreams into realities.

See It

Some people dream of things that never were and ask why? You must dream of things that never were and ask why not? Its only by dreaming that you will ever discover who you are, what you want and what you can do. When you see your dreams you can begin to take daily actionable steps to turn them into realities.

Feel It

I challenge you to dare to be great. Dare to dream the impossible dream. Dare to stand out in the crowd. Dare to “think different” and “be different.” Believe me, if you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you can dream it, you can become it. Your mind, body, and spirit must be consumed with your dreams each day you are granted with this most precious gift of life.

Believe It

Believe in your heart for it offers hope. Believe in your mind for it offers direction. Believe in your soul for it offers strength. But above all else believe in yourself because you have always been the answer and enough. Doors of opportunities are opened for those who truly believe in their dreams and self. Never ever forget that you are more than what you see in the mirror. You are braver than you believe. Stronger than you seem. And wiser than you think.

Plan It

A dream without a plan and a deadline are nothing more than a wish. Figure out what you have to do to make your dream happen and then just do it. It is never too late to become the person you have always dreamed of being.

Live It

Every day no matter how busy you become, be certain to take time to do something that brings you closer to your dreams. The last thing any of us want to do is to die with our dreams still inside of us.

Be It

Keep challenging yourself to think better, do better and be better. Shake things up in your life. You have gifts inside you that have never been exposed and personal journeys of self-discovery waiting to be explored. You have so much going for you. Never forget there is no duplication of you. We must strive to exhaust ever finite niche of our potential during our time here on Earth.

A dream will always seem impossible until it is done. But by seeing, feeling, believing, planning and simply living out our dreams every day can ensure that we are moving forward in the creating the life we envision. When the pursuit of your dreams become difficult and you become frustrated with doubts and negative self-talk, remember adversity is an experience, not a final act. Falling down is a part of life, getting back up is living. And inside every obstacle, are hidden opportunities. I pray that you will continue to nurture the dreams within you while dreaming to dare the impossible dream!

Written by : George Raveling

Referred to by many as “Coach,” George Raveling has transcended the intersections of sports, business, and culture. Following a standout college basketball career at Villanova University, he ascended to head coaching positions at Washington State University, the University of Iowa, and the University of Southern California.

After retiring from coaching, Raveling joined Nike at the request of Phil Knight, where he played an integral role in signing a reluctant Michael Jordan. His renowned achievements include induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

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A newsletter from an 87-year-old Modern Elder, seamlessly blending profound and timeless life lessons from the intersection of sports, leadership, business, history, and culture.

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