This past weekend, I went to what promised to be a spectacular holiday dinner. Picture this: 9 courses, carolers serenading us, Santa greeting us at the door, a tour of their wine cave, and even a chef-led presentation of their farm-to-table concept. I love fine dining, and I love a theme, so I had high expectations.

Each person we interacted with—from the person at coat check to the chef to the sommelier—was kind and knowledgeable.

It was unique, creative, and full of charm…but here’s the thing: I didn’t love the food. 😬

One dessert was Douglas fir sorbet; another was applewood ice cream. The chef explained how they lit the wood on fire, then extinguished it IN the liquid for the ice cream—literally tossing a burning piece of wood into the pot.

The creativity? Off the charts. The flavors? Not my favorite.*

That said, a friend happened to go to the same restaurant the week before and said it was the best meal she’s had in her life!

Neither of us is wrong—we all have different tastes…and dreams.

But this was an example of reality not matching my expectations. This experience felt more show than substance, and while I appreciate a place that can do both, I feel like a restaurant should prioritize taste, right? So, this one missed the mark for me. (On the other end, Taco Bell has no show, but for the most part, you consistently know what to expect when you order a Nachos Bell Grande.)

Do you ever feel this way in life? We might chase the shiny, the different, the “latest thing our favorite influencer recommended,” only to realize it’s not what WE want at all.

In my Ultimate Vision Board Workshop, I talk about the power of alignment—how to recognize what you truly want versus what looks good on the surface or what someone else says is the best thing ever.

When your goals and actions are out of sync with your authentic, core desires, even the dreamiest, Instagram-worthy beach vacation or landing that promotion you’ve been chasing can feel hollow.

So, as we wrap up the year, I’d encourage you to reflect: Are you building a life that truly nourishes and supports your deepest dreams? Or are you checking off a mediocre, never-ending to-do list—staying small?

If you want to map out a vision that aligns with your true passions and dreams, reply with the word “vision” to be the first to know when I announce new dates for The Ultimate Vision Board Workshop.

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*The people working there were SO lovely, and I think they’re really passionate about what they do. The meal wasn’t terrible; it just wasn’t my favorite. Would I go back? Maybe, because the menu changes with the season, but it’s not at the top of my list.