Why am I writing this? The answer lies in what I’ve seen and observed repeatedly in my interactions with top executives, CEOs, and visionaries. There’s a subtle but deeply rooted problem—many leaders are unknowingly limiting themselves and, by extension, the growth of their companies. This limitation isn’t because of external factors like market conditions or lack of resources; it’s a subconscious boundary they’ve placed on their own vision.
What’s even more concerning is that they often don’t even realize it. They aren’t dreaming big enough or thinking beyond the now. The future they could build, the disruption they could create—it’s not even on their radar. This is frightening because individuals and organizations, bursting with potential, can easily stagnate simply because they didn’t conceive a bold enough vision. Without a clear, unshakable dream, they won’t hit milestones that they never imagined in the first place.
If you look at companies that have thrived for more than 100 years, their survival can be traced back to one common thread: an undying vision. The founders, and successive leaders, built and sustained something extraordinary because they could see it before anyone else. They allowed themselves to dream beyond the limitations of their time.
Why Do Visions Remain Limited?
There are several reasons why many CEOs and executives restrict their visions, even if unintentionally. Let’s explore some of these:
1. Upbringing and Environment
Our early life experiences and the environment we grow up in shape how we perceive the world, often more than we realize. If you grow up in a community where modest aspirations are the norm, the tendency to carry those limitations into adulthood, and even into your business, is high. This influence doesn’t just end when you leave home; it follows you subconsciously, affecting your ability to dream bigger.
2. Personality Traits
Some people are naturally cautious or risk-averse, preferring to focus on what theyknow they can achieve rather than what they could potentially achieve. While being pragmatic is essential, it often prevents visionary thinking. This trait is usually magnified in business settings, where measurable goals and KPIs dominate conversations. If unchecked, it can become an invisible ceiling for your vision.
3. Cultural and Societal Factors
Societal expectations can play a significant role in curbing one’s dreams. Cultural norms often dictate what is “acceptable” and what isn’t. Entrepreneurs from cultures that emphasize collective achievements over individual success, or societies that discourage risk-taking, may feel less inclined to pursue groundbreaking or audacious visions. What’s seen as “possible” in one society might be seen as “foolish” in another. But here’s the thing: all successful breakthroughs were once viewed as foolish before they became the norm.
While there are numerous other reasons, these three factors—upbringing, personality traits, and cultural influence—are the ones I’ve seen most frequently hinder great minds.
The Tug-of-War: Real vs. Ideal
Another significant issue, particularly for logical thinkers, is the battle between the real and the ideal. Reality, in this context, refers to what is achievable within the bounds of current circumstances, while the ideal represents the dream, the vision of what could be. Smart, analytical people often choose to focus on reality because it feels safer, more tangible, and measurable. But here’s the question: what really is reality, and who defines its limits?
I believe reality is malleable. History shows us that reality is shaped by those who dare to challenge it. Consider the pioneers of aviation, space travel, or even modern technology. The Wright brothers didn’t look at the sky and say, “It’s impossible for man to fly.” They saw a different reality, one that wasn’t accepted by the world at the time, but they brought it into existence through sheer idealism.
Steve Jobs famously rejected the idea that technology was only for tech enthusiasts and believed that computers could be an extension of everyday life for ordinary people. His idealistic vision led to the creation of the iPhone—a product that revolutionized not just the tech industry but the world.
It’s the idealists who reshape what is possible. Companies like Tesla, Amazon, and SpaceX weren’t just built on realistic goals—they were built on grand, almost improbable visions. Elon Musk, for instance, didn’t just want to create electric cars. He wants to colonize Mars. To many, that seems absurd, but that’s precisely why he’s pushing boundaries and leading industries.
How Can You Train Yourself to Dream?
If you find that your visions are constrained by logic or practicality, here’s how you can begin to unlock your potential and dream bigger:
1. Open-Mindedness
Stay open to new ideas, no matter how outlandish they may seem. Sometimes, the most disruptive innovations come from concepts that initially seem impossible or illogical. Allow yourself to consider options that don’t make immediate sense.
2. Surround Yourself with High Achievers
Your environment matters. Surround yourself with people who dream big and achieve big. High achievers have a way of inspiring those around them. If you stay in a bubble of caution or comfort, your vision will remain limited. Spend time with those who push the boundaries of what’s possible, and let their energy fuel your own dreams.
3. Cultivate a Strong Belief in Possibility
The belief that anything is possible is a powerful catalyst for growth. You need to develop a mindset where obstacles are seen as opportunities for innovation. Don’t shy away from challenges—lean into them. The bigger the problem you solve, the greater your potential impact.
In Conclusion
Dreaming isn’t just about setting lofty goals—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what is possible, both for yourself and for your company. The right dream, the right vision, can transform not just your business, but entire industries. Don’t let your upbringing, personality, or societal expectations limit your potential. Don’t settle for what is “real” when you can create a new reality based on your ideal.
The right vision, combined with the will to pursue it, can take you further than you’ve ever imagined. In the words of Greek mythology: “He who overcomes others is strong; he who overcomes himself is mighty.” Go forth and dream the dream that will change everything.