Dream Team

As you prepare to give birth to your dream and for God’s calling in your life to come to pass, what you share with others—and who you share with—is so important to your journey.

I really do believe that teamwork makes the dream work. We need others to help us stay through, accountable and in balance as we pursue our purpose. I also believe that Christ intends for us to operate in community with others. After all, Jesus had his disciples… the first dream team! And, oh, what a mission they were able to be a part of.

Today, I want you to take a close look at how you build the best support team around you. If you screw this up, you’ll be hanging out with the bunch of losers who will limit you and each other.

But, here’s the thing: a team is defined as ‘a number of persons associated in JOINT action.” By sharing your dream, you’re inviting people into your space, your plans and inner circle.(Social Etiquette)

The question is… who are you essentially “joining” with by sharing your dream and vision?

Some people (mistakenly & inadvertently) end up inviting everyone to their “team” —sharing their ideas and brilliance with anyone who will listen, seeking the advice and counsel of too many people or allowing themselves to be deterred by the words of doubters, worriers, nay-sayers, or jealous bystanders.

Listen! if you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far go together.

Here are four best practices to ensure you move forward with the right people so your dream does not become a nightmare.

1. Be selective & inclusive. When sharing your dream, tell the people who need to know. (And, all your Facebook, Twitter... friends do not need to know… Trust me on this one.)  Part of creating conditions for profitable success is that the people who are connected to you, depend upon you, and rely upon you know where you’re going. So have a conversation with your significant other eg. your spouse, your kids. Make sure they understand how your dream will affect them and what it means to their lives.

2. Share with trusted advisers. Tell colleagues and advisers that you trust—people with wisdom, experience or expertise who can support you and will support you. Remember, not all of those who can, will.  Make sure that you’re only speaking with people who have expressed a sincere desire to support you in your journey… even if that means hiring them to be a mentor and coach.

3. Create a circle of accountability. When you tell others your dream, ask them to remind you of what you’re focused on and ask them to support you. Your trusted team can pour back into you and help you get where you’re going. And you can do the same for them. As Proverbs 11:25 "The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped"

This was a big step for me because I’m a solo “do-er” and don’t traditionally ask for a lot of support. But when I’ve made up my mind, I don’t ask for approval. I tell people, “This is where I am going, this is the legacy I’m building and these are the people I’m serving.” Then I say that when times get hard I’m going to need them as part of my support system to remind me why I’m doing what it is that I am doing.

4. Don’t wait for approval. While others are helpful, they aren’t always essential. Seeking support is completely different from seeking approval. When you are clear on what you want, you need only give yourself permission to pursue your dream without apology and the need for outside approval. Everyone won’t be able to support or understand your calling, your mission, your vision… YOUR dream. That’s why it is Y-O-U-R-S!  You never need to ask for permission to do something that God has already commissioned you to do.

Protecting your dream is key. People are an integral part of that process. Just use discretion, discernment (and common sense!) as you do so.

I know the best is within you… it’s time for it to manifest through you.