Book Review: "Dream Big" by Bob Goff

I’m a dreamer.  I often joke with my wife that I tend to dream more when I’m awake than I do when I’m sleeping.  But when I look back over the course of my life, it quickly becomes apparent that many of the blessings and benefits I’m currently enjoying began with an optimistic, faith-fueled goal or dream.

For instance, before I started writing books, I dreamed about what it would feel like to hold a copy of one of my books in my hand or see a copy of my book on the shelf at Barnes & Noble.  That was a big dream, but now it’s part of my reality.

When I started podcasting, I dreamed about reaching listeners throughout the world with helpful and inspiring content.  Now I have the privilege to do that very thing every day, and I was just informed that one of my faith-based shows is ranked in the top 20 of all Christian podcasts in the UK.

Before I started Platform Launchers, I dreamed of a day when I would have the privilege to form a membership community, mentor and coach other message-based entrepreneurs, and create courses that help others build, grow, and monetize their online platforms.  Now I get to do that very thing every day of the week.

I’m a dreamer who likes to take action on my dreams.  I patiently and methodically follow through on the things I’m convinced I should pursue.  I also take inspiration from people who follow the same pattern in their own lives.  One of those inspiring people is an author named Bob Goff.  I have only spoken with him once, but in many ways, I feel like he has allowed me to get to know him very well through his writing.

And if you’re a dreamer like I am, or you’d like to start seeing some of your dreams become your present-day reality, I’d encourage you to read one of Bob’s books in particular.  The book is called “Dream Big.”

“Dream Big” is an inspiring and motivational book that encourages readers to pursue their dreams and live a life full of purpose and passion. Goff, a lawyer, author, and humanitarian, shares a host of personal stories (that are both entertaining and encouraging) along with practical advice to help readers discover and achieve their dreams.

Here are some of the key themes and ideas he emphasizes in “Dream Big.”

1. Identify Your Dreams: Goff emphasizes the importance of identifying what truly matters to you. He encourages readers to ask themselves what they really want and to give themselves permission to dream big, without fear or limitation.

Giving yourself permission to dream is key.  In my observations, this is something a lot of people hesitate to do.  For some reason, they’re convinced that big dreams are for other people, not them.  They stop themselves short of giving their dreams permission to grow.

2. Overcome Fear and Doubt: Goff discusses the common obstacles that prevent people from pursuing their dreams, such as fear of failure, self-doubt, and societal expectations. He offers strategies to overcome these challenges, emphasizing the importance of faith, persistence, and a positive mindset.

What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?  What would you attempt if you knew others wouldn’t doubt you or look down on you?  What expectations are being imposed upon you that keep you from answering your calling?

3. Take Action: The book stresses the significance of taking tangible steps toward achieving your dreams. Goff advises readers to create a plan, set goals, and take consistent action, no matter how small, to move closer to their dreams.

I grow tired of hearing people talk when I know they won’t follow up their talk with action.  Taking consistent action always precedes long-term success.

4. Embrace Failure and Growth: Goff encourages readers to view failure as a necessary part of the journey toward success. He shares personal anecdotes of his own failures and how they led to growth, learning, and ultimately, achieving his dreams.

Most people find failure so humiliating that they resist it at all costs.  But those who don’t allow failures to define them often become high achievers.  I like to try new things in life and business, but some of my new ideas flop.  When that happens, I like to tell myself, “Well, now you know what doesn’t work.  This will save you time in the future.”

5. Live with Purpose: At its core, “Dream Big” is about living a life filled with purpose and meaning. Goff inspires readers to pursue dreams that align with their values and passions and to make a positive impact on the world.

There are few things that feel quite as purposeful as living out your calling.

6. Build a Supportive Community: Goff highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in your dreams and can offer support, encouragement, and accountability.

I’m convinced that this is one of the major contributors to success in just about any area of life.  If you want to grow in your faith, you need a community.  If you want to grow in your business, you need a community.  If you have other goals and ambitions you’re inclined to pursue, a community will help you get there much faster and help you remain there once you arrive.

Overall impression of the book…

“Dream Big” is a call to action for anyone who has ever felt stuck, uncertain, or afraid to pursue their dreams. Bob Goff’s enthusiastic and optimistic approach provides readers with the tools and motivation they need to identify their dreams, overcome obstacles, and take action toward living a life full of purpose and passion. The book is filled with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a contagious energy that encourages readers to dream big and make those dreams a reality.  I’d highly encourage you to read it.

Click here to see "Dream Big" on Amazon.

© John Stange, 2024