It’s not always exactly the same, but the theme is definitely there. I’m headed to class and realize I haven’t completed my final paper. Or even started it. In a slightly different twist, sometimes I’m getting ready to go on stage and realize I don’t know any of my lines and all of the sudden I can’t remember being at any rehearsals, either. I wake up with this feeling of panic and it takes me a while to pinpoint why and assure myself that it’s been a very long time since I’ve had a final and even longer than I’ve been on stage (I mean, they’re still talking about my amazing sixth grade performance in the suburbs of Minnesota since I nailed that, but that was a while ago).
I’m clearly not alone and not even remotely original in my overworked subconscious. In fact, when you Google “reoccurring dreams,” the first article that comes up is from Psychology Today and opens with an example of being late for your final exam. And it doesn’t take an advanced degree in psychology to understand I most likely have these dreams during periods of stress and transition. At this exact second, I’m in the middle of a career transition, am preparing for the Good for Her Soul launch event (info coming soon!), my husband is job searching after being laid off earlier this year, and we’re dealing with a legal issue that’s been in the court system for the past six months with no end in site. And it’s the holiday season. Any of these alone can make me feel a little out of control on a good day, but the combination is clearly stressing me out and affecting my sleep cycle.
I’ve always been an active dreamer and typically remember most of my dreams, for better or worse. But in the middle of all the craziness, I’m looking for new ways to try and help my overworked brain, so I think I’m going to try and dream journal for the first time. I’m curious about whether or not this makes any difference or helps me sort things out so I can go back to random dreams about funny animals and people from my past I haven’t seen in years.
Anyone else had any experience with this? I’d love to hear what helps you rest your weary brain and get some good sleep.
About Catherine
Catherine has a strict one hour time limit for Christmas decorations in her home. She is the founder of Good for Her Soul and you can reach her here.
