FACT: Our brains construct an experience of the world around us.
What we see is filtered through our own personal experiences (as well hidden biases, subconscious desires, and beliefs). To a large extent, our expectations shape our experience. This is why two people can have the same experience yet walk away with totally different ideas.
Example:
Bob: That was an incredible meal we just had (someone who maybe rarely eats out).
Cindy: That wasn't so good. I've had a much better meal last time (she eats out more than Bob).
As such, it's not hard to accept that who we think we are is an illusion. Everyone who knows us, including ourselves, is experiencing someone quite different, are they not?
As I navigate the real world, I am trying to figure out what's real and what's not, and in the end, making the best of what comes my way.
What if our dreams were a more accurate representation than our waking lives? Wouldn't you then be best served by following your dreams?