Dreaming big, trying your best to fulfill that dream but expecting little may sound defeatist but what it really is is freedom to think, imagine, explore, and do without fear of failure. High expectations from others or yourself can paralyze your efforts or shy you away from even trying. If you expect little from your dreams you can only be pleasantly surprised. My son wanted to be an Army helicopter pilot but was unsure of himself. I was sure he had what it took to make it, but he was so concerned about failure. He feared looking foolish to his friends, disappointing me, and most importantly, disappointing himself.
To help him push through, I told Mike, "Try like hell! But don't give a damn." My goal was to get Mike to concentrate on the task (try like hell), but downplay the result (don't give a damn). Fear of failing can take your concentration away from the task. It can also keep you from dreaming because a dream can put pressure on you to make it come about.
Today Mike is an experienced, war tested, Army helicopter pilot who has been recognized for bravery in Afghanistan. Had he not pushed through his doubts, had he not brushed away his fear of failure, the Army and the soldiers he rescued would have not had him when they needed him.
Mike dreamed big! He tried REALLY hard! In return he got more than he ever expected!
To help him push through, I told Mike, "Try like hell! But don't give a damn." My goal was to get Mike to concentrate on the task (try like hell), but downplay the result (don't give a damn). Fear of failing can take your concentration away from the task. It can also keep you from dreaming because a dream can put pressure on you to make it come about.
Today Mike is an experienced, war tested, Army helicopter pilot who has been recognized for bravery in Afghanistan. Had he not pushed through his doubts, had he not brushed away his fear of failure, the Army and the soldiers he rescued would have not had him when they needed him.
Mike dreamed big! He tried REALLY hard! In return he got more than he ever expected!
