Dream So Big That It Freaks People Out

Dream So Big That It Freaks People Out

Stop letting people crush your dreams. People aren’t used to hearing other people say they are going to do something that others only dream about. Dream big(ger). Chase your dreams. Catch your dreams. Never sell yourself short. Fuel your dreams with your passion.  

At some point, you need a plan to make it happen. I can tell from firsthand experience that you will have more failure stories than success stories. If you’re spending your time working towards those dream goals then your compass is pointing in the right direction. When you spend a lot more time on useless tasks, then you won’t be a dream catcher.

Sometimes your doorbell never rings. Don’t spend your time waiting. Get out there and do your own knocking. When the doors aren’t open, you may have to kick a few down. Be outrageous, respectful, and grateful.

               In my four years of high school, my guidance counselor called me to her office only one time. I was a junior, and I had just received a letter telling me I was nominated for Who’s Who Among American High School Students. The proud feeling of joy emanated from my face because of this prestigious award. It was my first and only award in high school, and it immediately boosted my self-esteem.

            At that time, I thought the job of a guidance counselor was to guide me. Maybe sometimes she could offer me advice that would help me succeed. She may initiate praise when I did something special or help me when I needed support. Boy, was I wrong!  She was a “poser.”

            I met her that day for the first time. I was pumped up and smiling from ear to ear. I thought maybe she nominated me. The first thing she asked, “Do you know who nominated you for Who’s Who Among American High School Students?” I said, “No, I thought maybe you did.”

            She said, “I would never have nominated you because you received a “C” one marking period in geometry.” She sure did take me down off of my pedestal. That meeting is something I always remembered. It helped me motivate myself because she thought so low of me. A few years later I returned to let her know that in spite of her, I was accepted to the University of San Francisco as a transfer student from a community college.

            Never be a “pretender.”  Being honest and real can close the confidence gap for our children and colleagues that need a boost. Authenticity can connect that one person to your organization that would otherwise be disaffected. Liberate people with your kindness and your outrageous ability to dream then act.