Q: I've set a big goal for myself but I don't know whether or not it's realistic. My friends think I'm crazy and, at times, I tend to agree with them. How do you stay focused on what you really want, in spite of criticism from family and friends?
A: Let me say, I could have easily asked this same question about 40 years ago! I ran into the same situation when I wanted to go into the personal development industry. At the time I had a burning desire to conduct seminars and teach people how to improve their lives. I had no formal education or real training at teaching...just a burning desire to learn and teach. I had made a tape recording and invited one of my closest friends to listen to it. I still remember this as if it were yesterday...the tape was so bad that I could feel his embarrassment for me. He didn't know what to say and neither did I!
You know, I almost gave up on my goal and then something inside me said, "To heck with everyone else and their comments, I don't care if the tape is bad... I know I want this more than anything else. I'm not going to let them steal my dream away from me."
If you're earnest about your goal and you are committed to it, ignore the "nay-sayers!" To my knowledge, there have been no monuments erected in recognition of a critic. For the most part, the masses have always gone in the wrong direction, always afraid to step up to the plate and get what they really want. If your friends are making fun of you, it's very likely you're on the right track. There's no need to be foolish or belligerent about it...quietly and confidently pursue your dream! 
For more information on Bob visit, http://www.powertohaveitall.com
