As National Storytelling Week rolls around, I find myself reflecting on the role stories have played in my life. Not just the ones I’ve read or heard, but the ones I’ve told myself. You see, I’ve always been a daydreamer.

Even as a child, I’d get lost in imagined worlds, spinning tales about who I could be and what my life might look like. And here’s the thing: those daydreams didn’t stay locked away in my mind. Over time, they shaped the choices I made and the person I’ve become. 

As I’ve grown older I’ve come to realise that daydreaming isn’t frivolous or wasteful. It’s a gift. It’s a way of crafting stories that help us navigate life, see new possibilities, and find our path. And if you’ll let me, I’d like to share what I’ve learned about the virtues of daydreaming and how it can help you write the story of your own life. 

Daydream believer  

A safe space to experiment. When I was younger, daydreaming was my sanctuary. It was where I could be bold and daring, where I could explore lives and adventures far beyond the small town in West Yorkshire where I grew up. In our daydreams, we’re free to experiment without fear. We can try on different versions of ourselves: the traveller, the artist, the entrepreneur, or the lawyer. It’s a place where the world is wide open and anything is possible. 

Clarity through imagination. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to see daydreaming as a compass. When life feels confusing or overwhelming, I let my mind wander. Sometimes it leads me to memories of what I’ve loved most; other times, it points toward dreams I’ve yet to chase. Those fleeting thoughts about living in Italy, learning a new skill, or building something meaningful are not random; they’re clues, tiny threads of a story waiting to be woven. 

Fuel for motivation. There’s a magic in imagining your best life with such clarity that you can almost feel it. For me, it’s my desire to become an amazing coach, imagining a life filled with purpose and connection. Waking up each day with a sense of meaning and joy, and helping other people live their best lives. That vision has become my north star. When the path feels steep, I close my eyes and revisit my daydreams. They remind me of what is possible and keep me moving forward. 

Daydream to reality 

Daydreaming isn’t just about escaping into fantasy; it’s about laying the foundation for change. Here’s how you can nurture your daydreams and let them guide you: 

• • Carve out time to dream. Life is busy, and it’s easy to dismiss daydreaming as indulgent. But trust me, it’s worth the time. Set aside moments to let your mind wander. For me, it’s often on a walk or while sitting with a cup of real coffee. Those moments of stillness are where the magic happens. 

• • Write it down. I love writing my journal, and it’s full of dreams, big and small. Write about your ideal life as though it’s already yours. Describe the sights, sounds, and feelings. This practice not only brings your vision to life but helps you see how achievable it might be. 

• • Take small steps. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that big changes start small. If your daydream is about finding more joy, begin by making space for the things you love. If it’s about a bold career shift, start by exploring your options. Each step brings you closer to the life you imagine. 

• • Share Your Vision Don’t keep your dreams locked away. Share them with someone you trust. Over the years, I’ve found that speaking my dreams aloud not only makes them feel real but often leads to unexpected help and encouragement. 

Your life is your story 

Daydreaming, at its heart, is storytelling. It’s about creating a narrative of hope and possibility. And as someone who has spent a lifetime weaving stories in my mind, I can tell you this: the story you tell yourself matters. It shapes how you see the world and your place in it. 

This National Storytelling Week, I encourage you to embrace your inner daydreamer. Let your imagination roam, and trust that those dreams are leading you somewhere important. Life is too precious to live on autopilot. Pick up the pen and start crafting the story of your life. You’re the author, after all, and the best chapters are still to come. 

[Coaching is a process of guidance, designed to help you make positive changes in your personal and professional life. Coaching isn’t therapy or counseling. If you’re struggling with your mental health, please seek professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor.]