What to say when somebody criticizes your dreams

We have all met the dream killer, the person who loves to slam other people’s dreams and goals. The naysayer loves to criticize others, yet they aren’t willing to put themselves out there and take any risks.

Before people become successful, they are always perceived by others as a little crazy. Most people can’t visualize what something will look like; it is outside their concept of reality.

When Karl Benz had his first idea for the motor car, which he called a “horseless carriage” people thought that his dream was insane. Apparently, people couldn’t see any reason that they would ever need a car and they were perfectly happy to travel by horse and buggy.

Benz was criticized for trying to create a motorized vehicle and took his car out at night to test drive it and avoid ridicule, as his car would often break down on the drive. People probably told him to forget about the car and focus on his day job. Looking back, it is easy to see how wrong his critics were.

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Your critics can’t see your vision for a brilliant future. Don’t take advice from someone who can’t see your potential and the possibility of your goal.

Here is a top ten list of snappy comebacks that you can use and let the person know that you’re keeping your dream.

Top ten comebacks for someone who criticizes your dream

1. You say I dream too big, I think you think too small.

2. I’m not going to let someone who gave up on their dreams talk me out of mine.

3. People are limited not by their ability but by their vision.

4. If you don’t build your own dreams, someone else will hire you to build theirs.

5. If you dreams don’t scare you, they’re not big enough.

6. Are YOUR excuses more important that your dream?

7. You won’t get anything unless you have the vision to imagine it.

8. People too weak to follow their own dreams will always discourage others from following theirs.

9. Dreams come a size too big so we can grow into them.

10. The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.

Why do people criticize our dreams ?

The people in your life may criticize your dreams for many different reasons. It might come from their own insecurities, fears or limited world view, and they inflict their fears onto other people. 

The person might have good intent to protect you from a potential stressful situation but only you know what is right for your life.  

Whatever dream you are going after, go after it with deamination and resilience. Here are a few ways you handle criticism.  

How to deal with someone who criticizes your dream

1. Seek Support from like minded people


Get around people who are also trying to accomplish big goals in their lives. Their encouragement and can-do attitude will push you forward.

2. Stay Focused

Break down your big goal and accomplish one step at a time towards your dream. Don’t forget why you started and why you want this big goal.

3. Respond with Confidence

Show up with confidence when they criticize and let the naysayer know that you are committed to making your dream happen.

4. Learn from Constructive Feedback

There is a big difference between constructive feedback and flat out criticism that isn’t helpful.  Listen up to people who can give you constructive feedback and ignore the negative Nelly’s.

5. Embrace Resilience

Use criticism as a force to drive you forward and prove the naysayers wrong.  

Stay true to your dreams and what you are trying to accomplish. Whatever you want to achieve there will be haters and critics, but keep going in the face to criticism to make your dream a reality.

Madison’s friend criticized his dream of becoming a digital nomad

Madison’s friend, who was unsupportive of his dream of becoming a digital nomad, voiced criticism that left Madison feeling disheartened. Despite Madison’s enthusiasm for the prospect of leading a location-independent lifestyle, his friend’s negative remarks cast a shadow of doubt on his aspirations.

The criticism struck a chord with Madison, causing him to question the feasibility of his dream and the support of those around him. As Madison reflected on his passion for the digital nomad lifestyle and the opportunities it presented, he realized that the opinions of others should not dictate his ambitions.

With a renewed sense of determination, Madison sought out like-minded individuals who shared his vision and provided encouragement and validation. Surrounding himself with a supportive network of individuals who understood and embraced his aspirations, Madison found the strength to pursue his dream of becoming a digital nomad, unburdened by the disapproval of those who failed to comprehend his vision for the future.

The Role of counselling and self care

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When you are dealing with someone who puts down your dreams and you find it stressful, consider getting support from a professional. Talking to a counsellor is a great way to work through a challenging situation, and help you find some strategies to work through the person’s behaviour.

Better Help is a great resource where you can talk to a counselor from the comfort of your own home. 

Taking care of your own needs isn’t selfish, and you will feel better in the long run.

Got any comments, questions or tips for dealing with someone who criticizes your dreams? Share them in the comments below.

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