Listeners, the phrase “Follow your dreams” is everywhere—from graduation speeches and TikTok videos to campaign rallies. But what does it really mean to chase your passion in 2025? Recent research out of UCLA shows that while 86% of young people still believe in the American dream, most feel blocked by economic pressures, rising student debt, and mental health challenges. In fact, over half of them want to see more honest portrayals of struggle, not just the highlight reels and quick success stories we see on social media.

Essayist Heather Havrilesky, in her widely discussed 2025 essay, says the real challenge is not just going after any dream, but figuring out what’s actually worth wanting. It’s easy to be swayed by dreams of fame or money, but lasting satisfaction often comes from pursuing what truly brings you joy—even if that means choosing a less-traveled path or redefining what success looks like for you personally.

Take Paralympic gold medalist Dylan Alcott as an example. He didn’t just excel in sports; he blended athletics with music and activism, building a life that broke barriers and defied outside expectations. His story proves that following your dreams often means learning to embrace setbacks, ignore the naysayers, and find meaning beyond traditional markers of achievement.

For those uncertain about where to start, experts and dreamers alike recommend reflecting on the activities that make you lose track of time, setting small, achievable goals, and staying open to pivots as you grow. Write down your goals so you see them daily, and don’t be afraid to ask what sacrifices are truly worth making. Remember, the process is rarely glamorous, and setbacks are inevitable, but resilience is built along the way.

In a world where competition is fierce and the pressure to conform is strong, following your dreams isn’t about chasing fantasy. It’s about authenticity, realism, and the willingness to carve out a life that feels meaningful to you. Pursuing your passion—with all its risks and rewards—isn’t always easy, but it can lead to a life that is uniquely, vibrantly yours.