Two roads diverged...

I'm sitting at my desk in class, which is about to end. The teacher is droning on about something, but I just tell myself that it'll be over in a few minutes, and I'll be off on an adventure. Class ends, and I find an object nearby that teleports me into a castle ruins on a high mountaintop. As I look around, I think to myself, "This is going to be a good one!"

I have dreams like this every night. I know that I'm dreaming subconsciously, use my emotions, expectations, and 'dream items' to tailor the plot to my liking, and then go experience the story as it unfolds.

Last night was different though. Instead of heading off to experience this cool dream, I stopped, and made a conscious effort to be aware that I was dreaming. I was concerned that I might miss out on this cool adventure, but thought it would be worth it to attempt to gain more direct control over my environment.

Despite knowing with certainty that I was dreaming, I felt like I was having trouble wrapping my mind around the idea, so I looked around and repeated to myself "this is a dream, this is my mind," with conviction. The next thing I knew, there was nothing but fog (literally nothing else, I didn't even have a body), and I attempted to conjure something, possibly a DC, but instead I began to wake up.

I have mixed feelings about the experience. Even now, hours later, I'm still somewhat frustrated to have missed out on a cool adventure. On the other hand, the act of identifying my dream as a dream from within seems like progress towards full lucidity.

Does anyone have any input for me at this stage? Would it be better for me to just stick with where I am, and enjoy these semi-lucid adventures, or should I keep trying for improved clarity and control? If the latter is my goal, should I just try to remember to spin circles and rub my hands next time? Thanks everyone!

Trying to improve your lucid ability will get you much more enjoyment. Keep working on your reality checks, those always convince me without a doubt.

I have had many of the semi-lucid adventures. They are often a lot more vivid and long than lucid dreams. I often have lucid dreams right before I wake up. I think that's why I like WILD's. What should be your goal? That is for you to decide. Lucid dreaming is a skill that can be improved upon with practice.