Even if you do not consciously use dreams for problem solving, you no doubt have had the experience of waking up in the morning with a clear and simple answer to a problem. You may not even remember a dream, but you know what to do in the situation at hand. This technique has been used for centuries to gain insight.

The conscious mind can struggle and wrestle with a problem, but when it is released to the superconscious mind, the greater infinite resources of consciousness, the answer effortlessly appears.

Deliberately programming your dreams for answers to problems, however, is taking even more control of the dream state and letting it work for you.

Programming Your Dreams

To use dreams for problem solving, sit on the side of your bed before going to sleep. Take several deep breaths, relax, and bring the problem to mind. Whether it concerns relationships, career, health, inspiration for a creative project, or whatever, go over in your mind all the different parts of the problem that seem relevant.

You have already thought about it, reflected upon it, but you are not sure which is the best direction, or the most positive solution. Feel into the problem as well as mentally reviewing it. Now mentally repeat, "Tonight I will have and remember a dream containing information for the solution to this problem. The problem concerns . . . (and briefly describe it as objectively as possible). I will now have this dream, and will recall, understand, and record it upon awakening. I open myself to the highest possible insight and guidance." Then go to sleep, completely releasing the situation from your mind, resting in the expectation that you will receive the answer.

Recording Your Dreams

As soon as you awaken, write down everything you can remember. Write down any general sense of the dream, feelings, impressions, as well as images. You may awaken with a clear recall of a dream which, upon analysis, gives a very definite answer. You may awaken with a strong sense of just knowing what to do. Or, sometime during the day, something in waking reality may trigger an image or impression from the dream, and you have your answer.

If you recall a dream that you cannot seem to figure out, just record it, and continue the process the following night.

Patience and Self-Love

Avoid telling yourself that the process is not working. It is working; you just do not yet understand it. So if you do not have the answer you want upon awakening, do another little relaxation before starting your day. Suggest to yourself: "I have completely released this problem or situation to a higher wisdom within me. This answer is now presenting itself to me. I am open and receptive." Then dismiss the concern from your mind. Holding on to it or worrying about it will block your insight. If you do not get the answer during the day, repeat the programming procedure again before going to sleep. You should have the answer to any problem within a three-day period.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the greatest thing we can do for another is to honor their inner power to make decisions and choose the kind of life they want to live. We are all free to make our own mistakes. That is the only way we learn. When you are too concerned with shaping up someone else's life, you can be sure you are copping out on your own lessons. So, ask for insight into self. Release others to learn their own lessons.

You certainly can pray for others and send them love. But do so in a way that honors their higher self, giving them the energy and freedom to make their own decisions, to determine their best life path, whether or not it may include you and your expectations and desires.