Welcome, listeners. Today, we’re unraveling the real meaning of the phrase “Follow your dreams”—those famous words that echo through graduation speeches, saturate social media, and appear on campaign slogans. In 2025, their significance is being reimagined. According to a recent episode of the “Follow Your Dreams” podcast, the journey to success is rarely a straight line. One guest, a former investment banker who became a wildlife photographer, described changing careers as “terrifying, but essential.” For them, fulfillment came from being open to unexpected turns and recognizing that passions can evolve over time.

A 2025 study from UCLA revealed that 86% of young people still aspire to achieve the American dream, but most report major economic barriers. In fact, 60% say it’s personally hard to get there, and more than half want honest depictions of financial struggles and mental health in media. There’s a hunger for realism—today’s dreamers are asking for stories that include setbacks and new beginnings, not just glossy highlight reels.

Essayist Heather Havrilesky, in her recent piece “Embrace Your Dreams in 2025,” urges us all to go deeper than simply chasing any desire. She suggests asking: “What’s truly worth wanting?” Our culture tends to glamorize outcomes—money, fame, titles—but lasting satisfaction often comes from discovering what genuinely brings joy, even if it means taking an unconventional path.

We’ve seen inspiring examples this year. Paralympic gold medalist Dylan Alcott broke through social expectations and physical barriers by weaving together sports, music, and activism—proving that success is about refusing to accept limitations and finding purpose in surprising places.

For anyone listening and hoping to act, here’s some practical advice. Reflect on the activities that absorb you completely, the ones that make time disappear. Set small, achievable goals and stay flexible as you learn and grow. Regularly revisit your aspirations and don’t be afraid to pivot. Remember, setbacks are just part of the process and can fuel resilience.

In a rapidly changing world, following your dreams is about more than ambition—it’s about redefining success on your terms, remaining authentic, and embracing the adventure of becoming who you truly are.