What to Do When No One Else Believes in Your Vision

So you've made the decision to shake up your life by making some pretty dramatic changes, and things aren't exactly going according to the plan (do they ever?). But you're not discouraged. You know the path needs to be tweaked, but you're not giving up on the belief that you'll eventually get it right. In the meantime, you're putting a good deal of your energy into trying to convince people that even though there have been a few bumps so far, this really is the best decision for you, and that you really do have a goal. Still, no one else seems to quite believe in the vision that you hold for a fulfilled life that's full of passion and purpose. Here are a few ways you can deal with that:
Stop trying to force it.

Sometimes people have a hard time envisioning things that they don't have direct experience with. You can see it so clearly because it's your dream and your purpose. It's probably going to take them a while to "get it". Save the energy and creativity you've been putting into explaining how you have a plan, into actually executing your plan.

Stop seeking approval.

You know that you're going to continue to be miserable if you don't do the thing(s) you're longing to do--if you don't at least try. Be okay with knowing yourself well enough to know what's right for you--you don't need anyone else to sign off on it and tell you it's okay.

Stop talking about it.

There may be no amount of words or emotions that can tumble out of you to help them understand. Just show them. Push harder, bring the thing to fruition, and then they'll see with their own eyes, and they'll be so proud of you and excited for you. If you feel that you've just gotta get something off your chest, pull out your journal and write it down (or bang out a blog post).

Stop judging yourself and them.

You're doing the best you can with what you've got. Stop judging yourself to be not enough, and work with what you've got until you get some more. And while you're at it, stop judging them as not supportive and forgive them. They're likely doing the very best they can to be on your side, and they're only trying to help you do what they think would be best. Appreciate them for loving you enough to want you to be healthy and happy. But continue to do what YOU think is best for you.

Ultimately, you have to live your life your way. There might be some setbacks, some moments of stress, some unpaid bills, some teary nights. But as long as you have a plan and you're working diligently and responsibly toward it, you're doing all that you can. Believe in the dream yourself first, and everyone else will eventually follow.


"The more you love your decisions, the less you need others to love them." - Unknown

For more great little motivational nuggets like the quote above, follow my 'Perfectly Inspiring Quotes' board on Pinterest. It's perfect for when I need a quick little jolt of positive energy. xx