2. A concerned friend.
3. An "expert".
4. Dad.
5. Mum.
Now, before I receive any abusive comments, let me clarify one thing — Dream Squashers are not to be confused with the people in your life who are genuinely trying to protect your best interests; there is much great advice to be taken (graciously) from friends and family. But sometimes they are one and the same. They don't mean to be, or want to be — but sometimes they are Dream Squashers.
Here are some tips for dealing with the Dream Squashers who might come into your world:
1. Realise that they don't understand dreams. Your dreams anyway. They don't need to; only you do. Don't try and persuade, convert them or convince them.
2. Be direct with them. "If I want your feedback, advice or input, I'll let you know, thanks." Don't let other people tell you what your dreams, goals or standards should be. Many will try.
3. Be selective about who you share your dreams with.
4. If you want your dream to become a reality, it needs to be attached to a practical action plan. Dreaming is great but not enough (of itself) to create results.
5. Avoid the career Dream Squasher at all costs — they exist. They delight in bringing others down and strategically and viciously raining on your parade. They are typically sarcastic, condescending, critical, arrogant and self-righteous. They resent the success of others (I think I've met most of them). Usually they are miserable and have achieved nothing (much) themselves. Other than that, they're great.
6. Don't be precious; there will always be critics, 'experts' and Dream Squashers.
Toughen up. Don't expect universal support. Enjoy it when it's there.. but don't expect it. If you crumble every time you encounter resistance, your therapist will be rich and you'll be frustrated. And poor. Successful people are resilient. Use the resistance to make you stronger and to develop those much-needed skills.
7. Succeed. Apart from the sense of satisfaction, the joy, the fun and personal growth you'll experience, it will annoy the crap out of the Dream Squashers.
And ya gotta love that.
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