When People Don’t Understand Your Dream
The early stages of entrepreneurship can feel really lonely. I know it did for me.
I had this dream, this vision, but it was just in my head. It took time to prove to others (and to myself) that it was worth all my time and effort.
And in those early days, the people closest to me didn’t always get it.
Honestly, there are still moments when they don’t fully understand what I’m doing. That can feel isolating.
Over the last 15 years, I’ve learned a lot about what it means to believe in something even when others don’t. And I’ve done a few things that have really helped me.
First, I keep going.
Whether people get it or not, I stay focused on what I’m building. Even when I’m the only one who sees it.
Second, I find people who do understand.
When I attended my first mastermind in 2019, I finally felt seen. Being surrounded by like-minded entrepreneurs made a huge difference. I no longer felt alone or “crazy” for chasing a dream others didn’t see.
For me, continuing to invest in masterminds and conferences helps me stay motivated. It’s like a safe space for dreaming big. I’ve also met like-minded friends and business partners who have changed my life.
Third, I try to understand where people who don’t get it are coming from.
Here are a few reasons people might not support your dream:
- They’re scared for you and want to protect you
- They don’t understand the vision (yet)
- They’re afraid of how your success might change you
- They’re worried about what your success says about their own choices
- They’re afraid of losing the person you are today
Most of the time, it’s not about them trying to crush your dream. It’s about fear. And when you can see that, it becomes a little easier not to take it personally.
If you're feeling unsupported, you're not alone. I’ve talked to so many people who don’t have the backing of their parents or even their partners when they decide to go big.
Yes…it’s frustrating. But when you’re chasing your dream, you don’t have time to be upset about what other people think or say. So…
Stay close to your vision.
Find your people.
Find understanding for your critics.
