“Dream killers are akin to crabs in a bucket,
pulling down those who strive to climb out.”
~ Vinh Van Lam
Have you ever mustered the courage to confide your dreams to someone, only to have them react with skepticism or even try to sabotage your aspirations? It’s a scenario all too familiar for many of us. Fashion Designer Anthony Van Lam aptly describes this phenomenon as an attempt to “stunt your growth” so you can’t reach your dreams. But why do these dream killers behave this way, and how should you respond?
The initial response to such dream killers often involves a whirlwind of emotions—embarrassment, anger, and disappointment. We wonder why someone would try to snatch away the very thing that fuels our ambitions. The truth is, their motivations stem from their own insecurities and fears.
Some dream killers have already abandoned their own aspirations. They may have faced setbacks or challenges that led them to believe that achieving their dreams is impossible. Seeing someone else pursue their dreams serves as a painful reminder of their own unfulfilled desires.
Others are simply too afraid to chase their dreams. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, or fear of stepping out of their comfort zone holds them back. Witnessing someone else pursue their dreams highlights their own lack of courage and reinforces their decision to remain stagnant.
Then there are those who never believed their dreams could come true in the first place. They’ve been conditioned by society or their own experiences to believe that success is reserved for the lucky few. Seeing someone defy these beliefs threatens their worldview and challenges their sense of reality.
In essence, these dream killers are akin to crabs in a bucket—each one scrambling to pull down those who dare to climb out. This analogy becomes vividly clear through personal experience. As a child, I had a pet crab named Naughty who constantly tried to escape. However, when I introduced more crabs into the bucket, they would team up to thwart Naughty’s attempts at freedom.
Much like the crabs, dream killers work in tandem to prevent others from reaching new heights. They inject doubt, negativity, and fear into our minds, hoping to keep us confined within the limitations of their own perceptions.
But here’s the crucial point: we must stop listening to these dream killers. Instead, we should seek guidance and inspiration from those who have already achieved their dreams. Surrounding ourselves with successful individuals who uplift and support us is essential for our own growth and development.
If you’re a dreamer with a vision for greatness, don’t let the crab mentality hold you back. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a business of your own, there are resources and support systems available to help you succeed. At ArtSHINE, we believe that greatness resides within each of us, including you.
Take action today by participating in one of our discovery surveys to receive a complimentary coaching session. We’re here to work alongside you, empower you, and help you turn your dreams into reality.
Want to learn more? We’re here to help you to take action, just like we’ve helped thousands of other entrepreneurs, business owners, and creative professionals all around the globe. Now is the time to let your passion SHINE. Now is the time to Make Tomorrow Today! To your success, Vinh Van Lam and Stuart Horrex Cofounders
ArtSHINE.com
Remember, the only limits that exist are the ones we place on ourselves.
