Title: Why Deferring Your Dreams is Holding You Back According to Merriam-Webster, the word defer means "to put off or delay". While it may seem like a harmless action, deferring your dreams can have serious consequences on your life. What does it mean to defer your dreams? It means putting off pursuing your passions, delaying taking risks, and choosing the "safe" route instead of the one that truly calls to you. It's the voice in your head that tells you "I'll do it later" or "It's not the right time". But the truth is, there will never be a perfect time to pursue your dreams. Life is unpredictable and waiting for the "ideal" moment only guarantees that your dreams will remain unfulfilled. The longer you defer, the harder it becomes to take that first step towards your goals. And before you know it, you're stuck in a cycle of regret and unfulfillment. So why do we defer our dreams? Fear is often the root cause. Fear of failure, fear of the unknown, fear of what others may think. It's easy to get trapped in a thought pattern that convinces you that it's better to play it safe than to take a chance on something you're truly passionate about. But here's the thing - the risk of not pursuing your dreams is far greater than the risk of failure. When you defer your dreams, you limit your potential for growth and happiness. You miss out on experiences that could have enriched your life and the lives of those around you. The good news is that it's never too late to start pursuing your dreams. It starts with taking that first step - no matter how small. It's about taking risks, being willing to fail, and learning along the way. Don't let the fear of the unknown hold you back. Embrace it, and let it lead you towards a more fulfilling life. In conclusion, deferring your dreams is a choice - but it's not one that serves your best interests. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to take action. Don't let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Take that first step today, and see where it leads you. Your dreams are waiting for you - don't make them wait any longer. This word has appeared in 109 articles on NYTimes.com in the past year. Can you use it in a sentence? 
