Have you ever shared a dream with someone and the first response you got was, “Do you really think you can do that?” or “Isn’t that far fetched?” It’s not curiosity nor encouragement. Just subtle doubt wrapped in concern. And before you know it, their voice starts echoing louder than your own belief.
You begin to question yourself. Am I being unrealistic? Am I doing too much? Am I even good enough? I have been told countless times, “You think you’re better than us because you studied English Language.” Imagine that. As if pursuing what you studied, or trying to use your skill, automatically translates to pride. Sometimes people interpret growth as arrogance simply because it makes them uncomfortable.
I remember posting videos of myself practicing my broadcasting skills, just trying to improve. Instead of support, I got comments like, “What is this one you’re doing?” or laughter disguised as humour. Recently, someone I knew chose not to engage positively but would rather leave demeaning remarks masked as friendliness. It may look small, but repeated enough times, it is designed to chip at confidence.
What I have learned is that some people are unsettled by ambition they do not possess. Your consistency reminds them of what they have postponed. Your courage to try highlights their hesitation. So instead of confronting their fear, they project it onto you.
Bottom line? Guard your dreams. Not everyone around you is assigned to nurture your growth. Distance yourself from circles that shrink your vision before it breathes. Let your belief be louder than their insecurity.
