When we have a dream, it can be tempting to keep it to ourselves. There might be some fear or hesitation about sharing because we aren’t sure how our dream will be perceived or whether others will understand our true motives and desires.

There can also be some concern that others with impure motives might work to discourage us, distract us, or straight up sabotage us in the pursuit of our dreams. However, sharing our dreams can be a valuable means of building an emotional connection, and this can go a long way in helping us actually achieve the dreams we have.

Encouragement

A major way that sharing dreams with others aids in building an emotional connection is via the encouragement that can be offered by others. There is no doubt that the pursuit of any dream will come with many challenges and obstacles along the way. There will be times when circumstances tempt you to stop your pursuit but surrounding yourself with other people with whom you’ve shared your dream can help reinvigorate your passion and commitment in those moments.

These individuals can remind you of the “why” behind your dreams and make you remember the value and significance of the overall goal. In doing so, you’ll be able to stay on or get back on track.

Self-Confidence

Another form of emotional connection that can form by sharing your dreams with others is the development or strengthening of self-confidence. When you run into challenges and obstacles, it is natural to begin to doubt your abilities and talents.

However, others can remind you of those gifts and help you see the value and intelligence you possess. This helps you become more confident in what you’re able to do and will motivate you to keep moving forward and even to take new risks or pursue new opportunities.

Support

A vital way that sharing dreams adds value and builds an emotional connection is by creating a sense of support. No one should have to do anything alone, and when you have shared your dreams with a group of others, you have developed a group of people who can offer emotional, mental, and even physical support as you pursue your dreams.

This can be people who are present to listen to you when you’re feeling overwhelmed, people who offer advice and suggestions when you find yourself struggling, or people who offer materials, information, and resources when you are experiencing a need.

Empathy

A final form of emotional connection that sharing your dreams with others can provide is that of empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. As we practice sharing our dreams and also embracing the dreams of those around us, we activate empathy and begin to foster it at a deeper level.

One study found that the trait of empathy is significantly correlated with the frequency of sharing dreams with others, and the frequency of listening to the dreams of others, as well as an overall positive attitude towards dreams themselves (Bulkely, 2019).

While not often considered, sharing our dreams with others can help us build emotional connections that add meaning and value to our lives while also pushing us even closer to our dreams in the end.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2021 issue of CHOICES Magazine