Their parents dared to dream
Imagine feeling like whatever your passion is, it is totally viable as a career. That whatever dream you hold for yourself is fully possible.
I watched a short clip this week of Emma Stone's acceptance speech at this year's BAFTA Awards where she thanked her mum and added “She always made me believe this kind of crazy idea that I could do something like this.” And it reminded me of something I have been pondering a lot recently.
What if having parents who wholly, purely, and selflessly believed in their children’s dreams is the ultimate privilege? The flex we all need.
Having (also) recently watched the documentary Kelce, I learned that Jason and Travis Kelce had parents who prioritized helping their children find their passion, without judgment, and fully supported them in it.
This dynamic is not unusual in the very public world of celebrity actors and athletes.
When you hear Tom Holland’s rise to fame that started with him landing the role of Billy Elliot on the West End. His mother drove him to endless auditions and lived with him in a production house whilst he performed nightly on stage, despite having three other boys at home.
Zendaya’s story is similar too, with her dad driving eight hours each way to L.A. for auditions to ensure she landed Disney.
Taylor Swift thanked her mum at the Grammys (years back) for leaving her social circle, her life, and her beloved home to support Taylor’s dreams.
This is a large part of these people’s success.
Imagine in times of self-doubt having someone physically there with you, whose very presence says I believe in you and your dream, even when you don’t. Maybe this is what marriage is (I wouldn’t know 😂).
Often we hear stories like Michael Phelps who was fueled by those in his early education who told him he would never succeed. And whilst Phelps attributes his initial success to the naysayers, he says that true success — groundbreaking, Olympic record-setting success — was only achievable when his motivation went from overcoming adversity to realizing potential. When he shifted his mindset from proving doubters wrong to proving believers right. When he began to reach and realize what his coach knew, believed, and verbalized what was possible for Phelps.
I think so many of us invest in coaching to rehabilitate the support system that was lacking in our childhood. The belief in ourselves, in possibility, and that our interests have value.
My wish is that everyone has a support system of belief and possibility. And that if we didn’t have it in our childhood, we cultivate it in adulthood.
Imagine the businesses, role models, solutions, and possibilities we would have in our world if we all had people to hold our dreams. Remind us they are possible. And stand with us as we bring them into our reality.
Article FAQs
1. How can individuals who didn't have supportive parents during childhood go about cultivating a support system of belief and possibility in adulthood?
Cultivating a support system of belief and possibility in adulthood, especially for those who lacked it during childhood, requires deliberate effort and self-awareness. It may involve seeking out mentors or coaches who can provide encouragement and guidance, building relationships with supportive friends and colleagues, and engaging in self-care practices that boost confidence and resilience. Additionally, participating in communities or groups with shared interests can offer a sense of belonging and validation for one's aspirations.
2. Are there any specific strategies or techniques recommended for shifting the mindset from proving doubters wrong to proving believers right, as mentioned in Michael Phelps' case?
This involves a psychological transformation that requires introspection and determination. Specific strategies may include reframing past experiences, focusing on personal growth rather than external validation, and setting meaningful goals aligned with one's values and passions. Techniques such as visualization, positive affirmations, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can also aid in cultivating a mindset of self-belief and empowerment.
3. In what ways can businesses and communities foster environments that encourage belief in individuals' dreams and provide tangible support for realizing them?
This is best done by promoting a culture of support, inclusivity, and collaboration. This can be achieved through initiatives such as mentorship programs, employee resource groups, and recognition of diverse talents and achievements. Providing resources and opportunities for skill development, networking, and mentorship can empower individuals to pursue their aspirations with confidence. Moreover, fostering a sense of collective purpose and celebrating success stories can inspire others to dream big and contribute positively to the community or organization.