Don’t Downsize Your Dreams Because Someone Else Lacks Vision

It’s easy to lose confidence when someone doubts your dreams. You share your aspirations, hoping for support, and instead, you're met with disbelief or, worse yet, indifference. Worse still if it's your family or close friends!? They truly think they are rescuing you and keeping you safe by subconsciously asking you to play small.? Suddenly, the excitement you once felt begins to fade, and you start to question yourself. *Can I really do this?

I've been there. Growing up, my childhood was turbulent - there were times when it felt like the world was against me. I faced hardships, trauma, and setbacks that seemed insurmountable. But deep down, I always had a vision for something greater. As I navigated life, raising six kids, including biological, adopted, and foster children, balancing motherhood with a busy career, I had every reason to downsize my dreams. But instead of shrinking, I leaned into the discomfort and kept moving forward.?

That’s why I’m telling you now: Don’t downgrade your goals just because someone else can’t see your vision. The only person who truly needs to believe in your dreams is you.?

The Danger of Playing Small

When you allow someone else’s doubts to influence your goals, you’re not just limiting your potential - you’re robbing yourself of the life you’re capable of living. I’ve seen this play out not only in my own life but in the lives of those I coach. Many people settle for less, play small, and conform to the expectations of others because it's easier. But nothing worth having comes from taking the easy road.

If I had listened to the naysayers, I would’ve stayed in the status quo, doing what was expected of me rather than what I knew I was meant to do. I wouldn’t have become a coach or started Blue Sky Mastery.? If I think about it, I wouldn’t have become a foster carer either (quite a few people tried to talk me out of that one - thank God I didn’t listen to them). ? I wouldn’t have transformed my life and helped others do the same.

And that’s the truth about playing small - it keeps you trapped in mediocrity, going through the motions without truly experiencing fulfillment.?

Stuck in the Wage/Bribe Cycle

If you’re in a traditional 9-to-5 job, you might know this feeling all too well. It’s what I call the wage/bribe cycle. You trade your time for a pay packet, often enough to keep you comfortable but never quite enough to break free. It’s a subtle bribe—security in exchange for staying small. You’re rewarded just enough to avoid the discomfort of chasing your real dreams.?

I know what it’s like to feel stuck. There was a time when I was balancing a demanding career, taking care of my family, and wondering how I could ever get out of the cycle. But the truth is, staying in that cycle isn’t just a disservice to yourself - it’s a betrayal of your potential.

If you continue to accept this “safe” option, you’ll remain where you are. You’ll wake up one day wondering why you never went after what you truly wanted, and the regret of what could have been will weigh heavily on your heart.?

Get Comfortable With the Uncomfortable

Trust me, I know how uncomfortable it can be to step outside of your comfort zone. When I decided to start my business and become a coach, I had six kids to raise and a million reasons why it wasn’t the “right” time. But I did it anyway. And yes, it was uncomfortable. I had to face challenges, push through doubt, and make sacrifices. And at times it was scary, but you know what?? I did it scared!

That discomfort is where the magic happens. When you stop playing small and start leaning into the hard stuff, that’s where growth comes. Staying comfortable might feel safe, but it’s a slow death for your dreams.?

True success requires sacrifice, courage, and an unwavering commitment to keep going - even when it’s hard. Even when others doubt you.?

The Cost of Conformity

If I had conformed to what society expected of me - if I had stayed in a box built by others - I would have never experienced the fulfillment I have today. I would never have impacted the lives of my clients or raised six+ incredible children with unique needs and stories. I wouldn’t have embraced my calling.?

When you conform to the world around you, you rob yourself of the chance to create something extraordinary. Remember: No one ever changed the world by playing small.

Don’t Give Up on Your Dreams

Every time someone doubted me, I used it as fuel to push harder. When someone says you can’t, that’s not a sign to give up - it’s a challenge to rise.? I love that I am wired that way - it’s a “challenge accepted” from me every time someone tells me I can’t do something.

So I urge you: don’t downgrade your dreams because of someone else’s limitations. Your vision is yours for a reason, and you have everything inside you to achieve it. I’ve been through the storms, and I’ve come out stronger on the other side. If I can do it, so can you.

Your dreams deserve to be pursued, not downsized. Don’t give up - your future self and those who you help will thank you.