The unfortunate truth about life is that when you have a vision and dream, you also have “doubters” or as celebrities call them, “anti-fans”.
They are in the same category as taxes and bills. You have to pay your bills, but you keep pushing away the thought. They haunt you in your dreams and nag your conscious like your parents did in middle school—you get the idea!
They are killjoys that wait for a chance to drag us down when we want to fly. They are there in every corner, hiding and waiting for us like the stalker in Fatal Attraction, just so they can yell out their infamous lines, “NO, YOU CAN’T!”
And as troublesome as they are, they are actually friends in disguise. When in doubt, look at the enemy for some inspiration.
With that in mind, when someone tries to shoot you down, just remember this:
They Actually Care
They are like the aunt that shows up at annual family gatherings, just to tell you that no, your awesome, blue-colored dress is not as impressive as you think it is.But think about it this way: there’s a reason why they are shooting you down. They actually care. (okay . . . okay, just hear me out on this one)
Whether it’s a partner or a loved one, remember that sometimes, people can’t see what we see in ourselves. But that’s okay. They may be projecting the limitations they struggle with on you only because they want to save you from the pain of failures.
They may have a different perception, a different idea, and sometimes it’s okay if the ones you love are the ones with the loudest voice of discouragement! We’ve ALL been there!
Take this opportunity to prove them wrong by doing what you love to do. You can havea discussion with them and address their deepest fears. Sometimes fear leads us to do irrational things.
They Show You How to Improve
Ever heard of the phrase, “I can and I will”? Well, this was probably coined by someone who met with staunch disapproval of…well, everything.
But on the bright side, if you have someone who doubts you, don’t think of it as them being insecure or not wanting you to succeed. Analyze their advice and see how you can improve so that you can prove them wrong.
They Are the Best Source of Inspiration
In his famous speech, Michael Jordon thanked his doubters. It’s easy to find support but it takes a lot to turn rejection into inspiration.
Think of your doubters as the demons and challenges you need to combat. You will be facing challenges, but it’s important to turn your difficulties into your greatest source of inspiration.
They Can Become Your Most Powerful Allies
People always reject those who don’t have the same vision and beliefs as themselves. Bridging that difference is important and that can be achieved via communication and building relationships.
Don’t listen to the advice of those who don’t want the best for you. But for those who are concerned for your well being, learn from them. Do what you want to do, but listen to the piece of advice that can help you carve out strategies that are helpful to you.
Motivate and inspire yourself with a bit of inspiration. Jon Petz is a keynote speaker that focuses on self-development and passion for learning. With clients like Dell and the U.S. Air Force under his belt, Jon makes corporate events educational and humorous, at the same time!