“If we did all the things
we are capable of doing,
we would literally
astound ourselves.” 
~ Thomas Edison

The inspirational words of Walt Disney have motivated many individuals to achieve more than they had ever imagined. He proclaimed, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” 

The word “imagineer” is associated by most, I would think, with Disney. The term, a blend of IMAGINe and enginEER, was actually invented and used by Alcoa, the large aluminum company, back in the 1940s. Imagineering is defined as “the implementing of creative ideas into practical form.” At Disney, imagineers design and build all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. 

Imagineering is a well-paid and highly coveted job opportunity. I think it’s important to acknowledge, however, that we all possess the potential to be imagineers in our own ways.

The motto of the elementary school my three sons attended is “Believe, Achieve, Succeed.” In other words, the purpose of the school is to develop imagineers who are capable of achieving success in life by nurturing their dreams into reality. Is this not a task to which we are all called?

Unfortunately, self-doubt is an epidemic. Far too many people, it seems, dismiss their dreams as being unachievable. Now and then, someone comes along who pursues their dream relentlessly and with passion. While we stand in awe of their accomplishments and creativity, we often fail to recognize that very same potential in ourselves. 

Far too many people talk about their dreams with a vague “someday” mindset. Whether our goal is to earn a college degree, lose unwanted weight, gain proficiency in a particular activity, learn a new language, organize a cluttered garage, or write a book, we are capable of achieving our goal. To do so, however, requires self-discipline and an unwavering commitment to getting the job done.

As Thomas Edison predicted in the quote above, when we accomplish our goals, we can literally astound ourselves!