People as Obstacles
There is no doubt that you’ve already encountered people who always have a negative word to say about a project you’re starting or a great idea you have. They quickly focus on the reasons why you won’t succeed, instead of encouraging you to do what you can. It could be a parent, a teacher, a friend, or even your spouse. In most cases, it’s someone you trust enough to share the idea with in the first place.
These people are your “dream-busters”. They bust open your dreams and stifle your spirit—when you let them.
I know about dream-busters all too well. When I decided to go back to school to become a lawyer, I was stunned by the reaction I received from some of the same people who encouraged me in the first place. They said things like, “Francine, are you sure you want to be a lawyer, why not be a paralegal—it’s easier.” While being a paralegal is an honorable profession, it was not what I wanted. I wanted to be a lawyer. They also said, “You’ll never become a lawyer with your history.” And while my history was an obstacle, it was not one I could not overcome with dedication, focus, and some hard work.
I’m not suggesting you completely avoid the dream-buster, because he or she has an important role to play. Their perspective can help you understand what you’re up against, and prepare you for the challenges ahead. The idea is to learn how to manage them. I find the best way to deal with dream busters is to first identify them, listen to what they have to say, ask yourself if their comments are useful, and then MOVE ON!
So what about you? Do you have a dream you’d like to realize in 2013? Are there loved ones who are not as supportive as you’d like them to be? Are you letting them stop you from doing something you want to do? If so, why not start this new year of by saying to the dream-buster in your life, “thank you for sharing”, and then move on.
Recognition of the obstacles that prevent you from living your dreams is the first step in taking charge of your life in 2013. Once you recognize these obstacles, it will be much easier to move past them!
What do you think?
If you’d like to read more about how to get past the obstacles, which stand between you and your dreams and goals, purchase your copy of Esteemable Acts: 10 Actions for Building Real Self Esteem, or 52 Weeks of Esteemable Acts: A Guide to Right Living. I’m Francine Ward, coach, lecturer, and author; feel free to join the conversation on my Esteemable Acts website, Facebook Fan Page, Twitter, or in one of my LinkedIn Groups.
