Aspiration: Understanding Its True Meaning

Last Saturday, 17 August 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Kampung Cakup event, a unique gathering that felt like our very own kampung version of TED Talks. This special event centred around celebrating our pioneers of Singapore for National Day, featured many inspiring moments, but none as impactful as the speech by Mr. Richard Tan, founder of Success Resources.

Mr. Tan, a global leader in educational seminars, shared wisdom that struck a deep chord with me. His journey from humble beginnings to building a world-renowned platform is a testament to the power of dreaming big. He emphasized that "If your dream doesn't make people laugh, then your dream is not big enough." This phrase made me question my dreams—have I been aiming too low, fearing failure or ridicule?

One of the most profound insights Mr. Tan shared was that aspiration doesn’t have to be logical—aspiration is magical. It’s not about what seems possible or reasonable; it’s about believing in something bigger than ourselves, something that can transform our lives and the lives of others. True aspiration requires us to set audacious goals that challenge our limits and transform us in the process.

Mr. Tan’s words inspired me to think beyond my current aspirations, to dream bigger, and to embrace the challenges that come with pursuing those dreams. Reflecting on his speech, I am now more motivated to push beyond my boundaries and to make my dreams so big that they not only inspire laughter but also spark inspiration in others.

The Kampung Cacup team did a fantastic job blending the spirit of our community with the inspiration of a TED Talk, making it a fitting tribute to the pioneers who built the Singapore we know today. Mr. Tan’s words will remain with me as a powerful reminder that aspiration is not just about reaching for what’s logical—it’s about embracing the magic of what’s possible when we dare to dream big.

How big is your dream?