Reach for the stars!

If you hear this phrase, you might picture yourself here on earth lifting your hands up as high as you can to grab a star in the night sky.  But it’s impossible to touch a star from earth, right?  Yes, that’s why this phrase is known as an idiomatic expression.

English Idioms and Pictures

Many times, English speakers use idioms to paint a symbolic picture for a phrase that they wish to say.  These pictures give additional meaning to the point the speaker is trying to make.  Because the pictures evoke emotion and action, the figurative meaning of these types of idioms helps the speaker and listener connect on a deeper level.

Reach for the Stars

“Reach for the stars” gives both the speaker and listener a clear picture of a person reaching for the night sky.  Although this image is simple, the deeper meaning is very insightful.  English speakers often use this expression to encourage another person to be ambitious and set their goals very high.  It means that they do not want the other person to limit himself or herself by circumstances or obstacles in life.  Instead, they believe that the other person can do whatever he or she desires, even if it seems impossible.

For example, parents may tell their children to reach for stars to encourage them to keep dreaming as they grow up.  Similarly, teachers may tell students the same because they see their potential in and out of the classroom.  Even your best friend may say, “Reach for the stars!” to challenge you to think positively about yourself and not stop working toward your goals.

Limitless

So, what are your goals?  What are your dreams?  Do you want to do something that may sound ridiculous or even impossible?  Or, do you struggle with believing in yourself?

Whether you have forgotten about old dreams or are nervous to keep pursuing your current dreams, we want to encourage you to reach for the stars!  The world needs what you have to offer and things like time, money, and fear shouldn’t stop you from achieving what is in your heart.  Instead of letting obstacles limit what you can do, find a way to overcome them so that you can finally touch one of those stars in the night sky.

Please connect with us at the English Language Institute to learn more about how we can help you reach for the stars!