Have you ever had a song hit you so profoundly that it feels like the universe itself is sending you a message? That’s exactly what happened to me recently while listening to ABBA’s “I Have a Dream.” As the lyrics floated through my mind, something clicked. ABBA sings about crossing a stream, but for me, it’s so much more. It’s about life – living it to the fullest, stepping into the unknown, guided by dreams and faith.
I remember playing this song on repeat as a kid and teenager, dreaming of what my life could be, without fully knowing what could be. Who would’ve thought those lyrics would spark an epiphany in my 50s?
Right now, I’m living a life as I’ve known it for 13+ years, as I pack up my life in Spain (adiós, tapas!) and prepare for a fresh start in Portugal (olá, pastéis de nata!). This will be the fifth country I call home in my lifetime so far… Norway, Cyprus, Wales, Spain, and now Portugal. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and yes, completely out of my comfort zone.
But isn’t that where the magic of life happens?
Crossing Streams and Rivers of Change
One of my mentors, Dr. Joe Dispenza, often talks about “crossing the river of change” to move beyond the familiar into the extraordinary. When ABBA sings, “I’ll cross the stream,” for me – it feels like a metaphor for that very leap – the act of leaving behind the known, and trusting the journey into the unknown.
Making the decision to move to Portugal wasn’t easy, it happened so fast, and I knew instinctively, I had to make a decision quickly based only upon my gut feeling. I don’t have all the answers at this writing moment , but what I do have is a lifelong dream: to live with location freedom and a growing trust in what the the universe gives me.
That dream I had as a young girl is not the same as I have today – because it has expanded. However, that young version of me was on to something that I lost for several years. Today it all comes together nicely. I see how life is meant to be co-created – not just reacted to. It’s about designing your path, even when you don’t see every step clearly.
Life Is Designable
Here’s the beautiful truth (in my opinion at least): life isn’t just something that happens to us. It’s something we can shape, mold, and create.
Think of it as a canvas – or maybe a ball of clay. You can paint it with bold colors, sculpt it into daring forms, and yes, sometimes make a glorious mess of it.
By the way – the mess becomes glorious when one trust the process that your path will be mapped out for you – as long as you are open and willing to receive it.
Did I always believe in this.
To be honest – a big fat NO!
However, over the years I’ve learned valuable lessons, and today I fully believe that we can indeed shape our life by design!
This move to Portugal? I’m stepping away from the familiar rhythms of my Spanish life of 13+ years, but staying 100% comfortable has never been my ultimate goal, because I believe – without growing and expanding daily, we allow ourselves to be less than we can be. Growth happens when we stretch ourselves, and I’m ready to embrace every awkward, exciting, and thrilling moment that comes in my next chapter of life experience.
Out of Comfort and Into Possibility
Change always comes with uncertainty, but that’s precisely where possibility lives. It’s the space where growth thrives, where magic happens, and where life takes on its most vibrant colors. Sure, stepping into the unknown can be messy. I might accidentally order bacalhau for the tenth time when I really wanted something else – or find myself hilariously lost in translation while trying to ask for directions.
But isn’t that part of the adventure? Those moments of discomfort are where we discover our resilience, adaptability, and even our sense of humor. They remind us that life isn’t meant to be predictable; it’s meant to be lived fully.
Letting go of familiar routines and faces isn’t easy, but it’s a trade-off for something extraordinary – new connections, experiences, and opportunities. Every stumble is a step closer to uncovering what’s possible.
It’s not about making the “correct” choice. There’s no crystal ball to tell us we’re on the right path. It’s about trusting that the universe has your back and that the journey itself will teach you, shape you, and guide you toward exactly where you’re meant to be. Even when you’re unsure, even when you wobble, every step forward is a step toward growth, excitement, and a life that’s uniquely yours.
And isn’t that the point? To live with curiosity, boldness, and the unshakable belief that the best is yet to come.
How to Start Designing Your Dream Life
Are you ready to create your dream life? Here’s how you can get started:
Follow Your Heart’s Whispers: That quiet little nudge you feel? It’s your dream calling. No matter how big or vague it seems, listen. Dreams are your soul’s GPS.
Embrace the Unknown: You don’t need all the answers to take the first step. Trust that the next one will appear as you move forward.
Celebrate Every Step: Whether you’re moving countries or trying something new, savor the process. The journey is where the memories and growth happen.
The Final Note
So, here I am – excited, scared, and oh-so-grateful. ABBA might have their song, but I have my dream – and life to live on my terms – and I’m dancing into this new chapter with an open heart with excitement.
What about you? Are you ready to cross your stream – or even your river of change – and design the life you’ve always dreamed of?
Let me know in the comments – I’d love to hear what your heart is whispering to you!
About Eva Hyllestad
Eva Hyllestad is a passionate SMILE-preneur dedicated to empowering individuals to unlock their infinite potential and manifest lives filled with abundance and prosperity. As an entrepreneur since 2016, Eva combines her expertise as a Certified Law of Attraction Practitioner and a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer to guide people toward transforming their lives.
Eva believes that abundance and prosperity are not luxuries but birthrights, accessible to everyone who dares to dream and take aligned action. With her uplifting approach, she inspires others to embrace their power, break through limiting beliefs, and create a reality where success and joy coexist.
Through her coaching, mentorship, and personal growth resources, Eva continues to be a beacon of positivity and transformation, empowering people worldwide to achieve their highest potential.
Join Eva on this journey and discover how to turn your dreams into a vibrant, abundant reality!
