"夢はあなたが眠っているときに見るものではなくあなたを眠らせないものです"

Dreams, in this context, refer to those burning desires or ambitions that keep you up at night, that you just can't stop thinking about. It's not about the fleeting visions we have when we’re asleep. Instead, it’s about those passions and goals that drive us, the ones that push us to take action and change our lives.

The quote's core idea is that true dreams are what propel us forward and give us purpose. They are so powerful that they consume our thoughts, making it hard to sleep. Think about it. What’s the one thing that you just can't stop thinking about, that occupies your mind even when you're trying to rest? That’s your dream.

This idea has historical roots. The quote is often attributed to former Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, a man who was passionate about inspiring young people to follow their dreams. Kalam himself was a dreamer—despite facing numerous obstacles in his early life, he went on to become a renowned scientist and leader, impacting millions with his vision and determination.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Imagine Sarah, a young woman with a passion for environmental conservation. Every night, instead of counting sheep, she’s thinking about how to reduce pollution in her community. It’s a dream that won’t let her sleep. She starts small: organizing clean-up drives on weekends, educating her neighbors about recycling, and eventually launching a local non-profit. Over time, her passion catches on, and more people join her cause. Sarah's dream, something that once kept her awake, starts to become a reality, making a tangible difference in her community.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? First, identify what keeps you up at night. What’s that one thing you’re deeply passionate about? Once you know it, embrace it. Don’t shy away from the discomfort of hard work and sleepless nights. Use that energy to fuel your actions. Set clear, actionable goals and start working towards them, no matter how small the steps might seem at first.

Here’s a relatable story. Think about Mark, who’s always dreamed of writing a novel. Every night, ideas for his book swirl around in his head, keeping him awake. But Mark has a day job, and he’s tired. Should he wait for the “right time” to start writing? Instead, he decides to use his sleepless nights to his advantage. He starts writing for just an hour before bed each night. At first, it’s tough, and he’s even more exhausted. But soon, the story begins to take shape, and that sense of accomplishment gives him energy. Eventually, those late-night writing sessions add up, and Mark finishes his manuscript.

See, it’s about leveraging that restless energy and turning it into productive action. When something won’t let you sleep, it’s a sign that it’s important to you. Embrace it—let it drive you to create, build, and achieve. Dreams are powerful. They’re not just idle thoughts; they’re the catalysts for change and progress. So next time you find yourself tossing and turning, remember: that’s your dream calling. Answer it.