Some years ago, I found myself embroiled in an ugly legal threat devised by men who had nothing better to do than to lure their prey into a net. Before my two partners and I even knew what was happening, we had become the victims of vicious personal attacks — attacks aimed at destroying us, our businesses, and even some dear relationships that had been reforged between the time I first met these men and the moment the attacks began.
The sad thing? These were not stupid men. They were seemingly gifted with great talent, but they had allowed themselves, because of past challenges, to seek devious ways to get ahead. And one of their greatest ploys seemed to be this: if their dreams appeared unachievable, they would seek to steal or destroy the dreams of others in the process. How childish!
That experience taught me a lesson I have never forgotten: dreams that are not anchored in reality — dreams without structure or a clear outcome — can easily be crushed by what I call dream stealers.
So how do you guard yourself against them? Here are a few ways I have, through experience, not only kept my dream intact, but expanded it beyond anything I first imagined.
1. Find Your Dream
The first step is simple: you must actually have a dream. And that only happens when you ask yourself some serious questions. Have an honest conversation with yourself and ask:
“If time and money were not restricted in any way, what would I do, have, or be?”
Answer that, and you will begin to unwrap not only your past, but your present and your future too. Most importantly — don’t forget to write it down.
2. Hold On to Your Dream
Never ever let another human being take away your dream. They may take your house, your car, your business, your bank account — but as long as you hold on to your dream, all of those things are replaceable.
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3. Share Your Dream (Wisely)
Be selective in your sharing. No matter what happens in your life, you need to surround yourself with a company of people who will cheer you on. By sharing your dream openly, you are crystallizing it in your own mind, while at the same time positioning yourself as someone who is held accountable in the pursuit of that dream.
4. Secure Your Dream
Unfortunately, the world is full of doubters who question anyone who calls themselves a dreamer. You will hear things like:
“How dare you think you can do that? What right have you to think you can have that? You’re not qualified. You don’t have the ability. You’re not skilled or educated enough.”
And on it goes. Ignore the naysayers.
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5. Pursue Your Dream
The great thing about doing business for myself is that I don’t have to ask anyone’s permission to succeed. I simply get an idea and then follow it. Now, there have been times I have hit roadblocks. But some of those stoppages have taught me the best lessons. So I simply get up, dust myself off, and go again down the highway of successful dream fulfillment.
Stay Alert: Dream Stealers Are All Around Us
So be alert. There are dream stealers all around you and me. They may even be in your own family. But do not allow them to steal the dream that, once achieved, will bless even the very thieves who tried to rob you of your life’s destiny.
Final Thought: Follow Your Dream
Whatever that vision is — the one that keeps you up at night — follow your dream. Hold it, guard it, and build it. No one else can do that for you, and no dream stealer can take it unless you hand it over yourself.
Empower Your Mind Against the Naysayers
FAQs About Dream Stealers
What is a dream stealer?
A dream stealer is anyone — a friend, family member, colleague, or stranger — who through criticism, negativity, or manipulation tries to discourage you from pursuing your goals and ambitions.
How do I protect my dream from negative people?
Anchor your dream in reality with clear structure and outcomes, write it down, share it selectively with supportive people, and deliberately ignore the naysayers.
Should I share my dream with everyone?
No. Share it selectively. Surround yourself with people who will cheer you on and hold you accountable — not those who will mock or sabotage it.
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