Presenter: With us in the Studio today we have James Smith, a psychologist from the University of North Carolina. Good afternoon, James.

James Smith: Good afternoon. I am really glad to be taking part in this programme  — it is a great honour for me.

Presenter: Thank you. The topic we have for today is familiar to everybody  — this is our dreams. We all have dreams and are dreaming of our dreams coming true if I can put it that way! James knows exactly how to do it. Is that so, James?

James Smith: I think it is. One of the amazing things we have been given as humans is the desire to have dreams and the ability to establish goals to live out those dreams. What makes it even more powerful is our ability not only to dream and pursue those dreams but the cognitive ability to actually lay out a plan and strategies to achieve those dreams. The question is how to do it.

Presenter: Can you define what are our dreams and goals?

James Smith: This is not what you already have or what you have done, but what you want. Have you ever taken time to think over your life values and decide what you really want? Have you ever truly reflected and listened quietly to your heart to see what dreams live within you? Your dreams are there. Everybody has them. They may live right on the surface or be hidden deeply if you are often told sarcastically they are not serious but they are still there.

Presenter: So how do we know what our dreams are?

James Smith: This is an interesting process and it relates primarily to the art of listening. This is not listening to others; it is listening to you. If we listen to others, we hear their plans and dreams and many of them will try to put their dreams and plans on us. If we listen to others, we can never be fulfilled. We will only chase elusive dreams. So we must listen to our own hearts.

Presenter: That seems easy and difficult at the same time. Do you know any practical steps on hearing from our hearts on what our dreams are?

James Smith: Firstly, take time to be quiet. This is something that we do not do enough in this busy world of ours. Schedule some dream time  — no other people, no cell phone or computer. Just you, a pad and a pencil and your thoughts! Think about what thrills you, what you would love to do either for fun or for a living. When you answer these questions, you will find yourself in the "dream zone". Only when we get to this point, we will experience what our dreams are.

Presenter: What should we do next?

James Smith: Secondly, write down all of your dreams as you have them. Do not think of any as too outlandish or foolish  — remember, you are dreaming! Let the thoughts fly and take careful record. Then, prioritize those dreams. Which are most important? Which are most feasible? Which would you love to do the most? Put them in the order in which you will actually try to attain them. Remember, we are always moving toward action, not just dreaming.

Presenter: What if a person does not find time to do all of this?

James Smith: Here is the big picture: life is too short and when it comes to the end, you can reflect on it either with joy or regret. Those who dream, who set goals and act on them to live out their dreams are those who live lives of joy and have a sense of peace.

Presenter: What is your final piece of advice?

James Smith: Remember about the dreams and goals that are born out of your heart and mind. These are the goals that are unique to you and come from who you were created to be and gifted to become. Your specific goals are what you want to attain because they will make your life joyful!

Presenter: Thank you, James.

James Smith: My pleasure.