Radiate from Within: Designing a Dream Life Rooted in Soul and Style
August marks a time of transition — the rush of back-to-school, shifting routines, and the temptation to push harder. But what if the secret to thriving this season isn’t doing more, but radiating from the inside out?
As a (Live a) Dream Lifestyle™ Coach, I teach that lifestyle isn’t just about what you do, it’s about how you design your days to reflect who you are becoming. That’s where my 3+ D’s: Dream. Decide/Design. Drive. framework shines; in helping you live a life full of intention, joy, and balance.
Here’s how to bring soul and style to your everyday and create a lifestyle that fuels your dreams:
Dream: Envision the Life You Want to Live
Start with the big picture. What does your dream life look like — not just in accomplishments, but in feelings? Imagine days filled with ease, joy, and alignment.
Soul Strategy: Spend five minutes daily journaling about your ideal day. What energy are you holding? What moments bring you peace? According to the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley, writing about ideal futures can boost optimism, motivation, and overall well-being.¹
Decide: Commit to Boundaries That Honor You
Lifestyle glow-up means saying yes to what lights you up, and no to what drains you. Decide which habits, relationships, and activities deserve your time and energy.
Soul Strategy: Choose one area to create a clear boundary this week. Protect it fiercely.
Design: Curate Your Environment and Rituals
Style and soul go hand in hand. Design a space and routine that inspires and supports you, from your wardrobe to your workspace to your morning rituals.
Soul Strategy: Introduce one small ritual — a signature scent, a daily stretch, or a playlist — that signals self-care and confidence. Research shows that meaningful daily rituals can enhance mental health and create a greater sense of control.²
Drive: Live Your Day with Purpose and Presence
The best lifestyle isn’t rushed, it’s intentional. Drive your days by staying present to your needs, savoring small joys, and aligning your actions with your dream life.
Soul Strategy: Pause three times a day to take a mindful breath and reconnect with your purpose.
Living your dream life means designing a lifestyle that feels as good as it looks. It’s about balance, boundaries, and boldness — all wrapped in soul.
This August, choose to radiate from within and craft an everyday life that fuels your radiance and resilience. Because your dream life is waiting, and it starts with the choices you make today.
Sources:
1. Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley. “Best Possible Self Exercise,” https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/
2. Norton, M. I., et al. “Rituals Alleviate Grieving for Loved Ones, Lovers, and Lotteries.” Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 2014.
Deneen L. Garrett is a Cultural Alchemist and Dream Lifestyle™ Coach who empowers Women of Color to choose themselves and live boldly. She is the creator and host of the podcast Women of Color: An Intimate Conversation, and uses her voice to inspire women to reclaim joy and wellness on their own terms.