It is the dream of many Americans to make a living doing what they love. When you find yourself working in an area that fits your gifts and passion… it can be exhilarating. It can also be exhausting.

In the Old Testament, God promised Joshua that He would give the Israelites the Promised Land. This was Israel’s destiny… their dream. But in the same breath He advised them that they would have to possess it. “I’m giving it to you… but you have to take hold of it. On the way to Israel’s destiny, there would be battles to fight.

Working in your dream job or ministry doesn’t exempt you from challenges. If you are battling major obstacles in the pursuit of your dream, here are three behaviors that will keep you moving forward:

Manage your emotions
As you chase your dream, refuse to be deterred by negative feelings that tend to accompany barriers or setbacks. Keep doing the right things whether you feel emotionally “up” or not.

Massage your expectations
A dream career involves hard work. Sorry to burst your bubble. The dream is a gift from God to be sure… but you have to possess it. To expend energy. And remember… even a dream position won’t be trouble-free. Expect roadblocks to emerge. If you’re doing anything of significance, you will encounter resistance. Setting proper expectations helps you keep it together when problems rear their head.

Maintain your equilibrium
Even when you do what you’re born to do, you need time to decompress and refuel. The bible refers to this as Sabbath. Disconnect from your dream on a weekly basis. Take your foot off the gas pedal, so you can rest and recharge. And you may wonder “If I disconnect one day per week,won’t the dream suffer?” Maybe… but here’s the truth… to God… you are more important than your dream. What have you gained if you succeed at your dream but destroy your health? If you win at work, but lose at home?

If you suspect your dream is turning into a nightmare… try these three behaviors. They give you a better shot at achieving your dream… and staying healthy along the way.