Why You Should Always Pursue Your Dreams.

“What is not started today is never finished tomorrow.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Dreams. We all have them.

I’m not talking about the ones we get when we sleep. I’m talking about the ones we have when we’re wide awake—when we look at a picture of Bora Bora and think,

“I wish I could go there,” or

when we pass by a beautiful house and think, “I wish I could buy a home like that,” or

when we drag ourselves to work and think, “I wish I didn’t have to do this.”

A few years ago, when I shared my plans to travel alone, I got a mix of reactions. Some of my friends, especially those who had travelled, were positive and supportive. But others? They didn’t hold back in telling me how dangerous solo travel was or how it was a waste of money. They told me I should focus on my future instead of chasing something so unconventional.

For a moment, their words made me pause and ask myself,

“What am I doing?”

But then I remembered this truth:

“Those of us who are doing what we want with our lives will always run into naysayers, doubters, and people who think they know better.”

It’s the crabs-in-a-bucket phenomenon. Even the people who care about you the most might unintentionally discourage you. It’s not because they have bad intentions—it’s because they don’t see the bigger picture. They don’t understand what your dreams, passions, and goals mean to you. To them, the risks seem too great. But to you, the potential reward makes it all worthwhile.

In my case, everyone around me—including my parents—knew how stubborn I could be. When I set my mind to something, I follow through. 6 years ago, I went to Thailand on my first solo journey. That trip changed everything. It was a turning point that taught me how much I love travelling and how powerful I can be when I focus on achieving my goals.

I recently read an article about successful people and the countless “noes” they faced while chasing their dreams. It reminded me of something crucial:

When you’re going after something big, many people will say “no.”
Sometimes, the only person saying “yes” will be you—and that’s okay.

With that in mind, I want to share 12 reasons why you should ignore the doubters and follow your dreams:

Doing what you want will attract haters. Instead of wasting your time on them, focus on your goals. There’s nothing more satisfying than proving them wrong—quietly, through your success.
The only “yes” you need is yours. Life is short, and the regret of not pursuing your dreams will weigh far more than any temporary fear.
“It’s safer to stay home,” they say. Sure, safety has its place, but playing it too safe means missing out on life’s richness. Growth and adventure come from stepping outside your comfort zone.
You’ll feel stronger. Every step you take toward your dream, despite the doubts of others, will make you braver and more resilient.
Dreams shape your destiny. At some point, you’ll face a choice: let dreams remain dreams or take a bold step toward making them real. That decision can define your life.
Your actions define you. Don’t let others control your path. Be the author of your own story.
Dreamers are doers. They create, influence, and shape the world around them in meaningful ways.
You’ll inspire others. When people see you chasing your dreams, they might feel empowered to chase their own.
Dreams open doors. Taking a chance on your dream can lead to unexpected opportunities you’d never have encountered otherwise.
Life has no rules. Why limit yourself to the expectations of others? It’s your life. Live it your way.
Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. You might have decades ahead—or just today. Either way, make it count.
Even if you fail, you’ll grow. Failure teaches valuable lessons and shapes who you are. Dust yourself off, learn, and try again.

“Miracles start to happen when you give as much energy to your dreams as you do your fears” – Richard Wilkins

When I look back on my solo trip to Thailand, I realize it wasn’t just about seeing a new country. It was about proving to myself that I’m capable of chasing what I want, despite the doubts and fears. That experience set the stage for everything I’ve pursued since.

So, to anyone doubting whether they should follow their dreams: take the leap. Say “yes” to yourself. The world is waiting for you to discover it.

X. Hani.