No Hard Feelings- Just a Clearer Vision

Tighten the Circle. Keep the Dream.

There’s something wildly vulnerable -and wildly clarifying -about announcing your dream to the world and asking for support. Whether it's launching a book, funding a film, starting a business, or stepping into a bold new chapter of your life, the moment you go public, a quiet sort of sorting begins.

You’ll find out quickly who’s really been cheering for you, and who was only clapping because it was convenient or beneficial for them. The truth is, most of the people you assume will show up won’t even share a single social media post. And these are the same people you may have shown up for time and time again.

Maybe you offered your expertise for free, gave them your platform, sang their praises, or helped behind the scenes when no one else would. You may have gone out of your way, not because you were keeping score, but because it felt right. Because helping others rise is what you believe in. But when it’s your turn? Many will be quiet. Or worse; They’ll comment on your post asking for something: a speaking slot, a ticket, a cameo, an intro.

They’ll ask for a piece of your dream before they’ve lifted a finger to help you build it. They’ll skip right over the work and aim for the perks.It can feel like a gut punch. Especially when your dream is still fragile, still forming. It’s tempting to get angry or bitter. But don’t.

Instead, get clear. Don’t focus on the ones who let you down. Focus on the ones who show up. 

The ones who click "share" without being asked. The ones who send a text that says, “I see you. I believe in you.” The ones who don’t need the spotlight to do the right thing. Let them remind you that real support still exists, even if it’s not coming from the direction you expected.

And remember the people who’ve helped you in the past - even if they’re not present this time. Gratitude doesn’t expire. Let it live in you without expectation. Most of all, don’t let this hard lesson turn you cold. Let it turn you clear.

Tighten your circle, not your heart.

Never offer your time, support, or services because you expect a return. Do it because you want to, or not at all. Because most people won’t return the favor -and that’s okay. You’re not doing this for applause. You’re doing it because the dream chose you. Go after it anyway. And as you rise -slowly, painfully, beautifully -keep track of who was with you when it still felt out of reach. When it’s time to celebrate, make sure those people are in the room.

And if you're feeling let down? Remember this: You’ve let people down too. We all have. We're human. But today, you get to choose how to show up - fully, fiercely, and without regret. That’s what dreamers do.