Paulo Coelho

When do we know that our dreams are not just ambitions – some ideas which were put on us by society, family etc. Where is that borderline of doing thing to please others, or doing something to fulfill our destiny? Because I would even say that the recognition I get from others is what most motivates me.

Dear Inga,
As king Solomon wrote “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity!” So there’s nothing wrong in seeking recognition – because either way all is the consequence of our ego (be it good or bad).

The borderline though between society’s dream and yours is to be found within yourself. Other’s cheers and encouragements are to be seen as a consequence of your actions, not as the cause. Would you stop doing something that you love, simply because you lose an audience?

Others cheers are of course a balm but you equally need to have the courage to persist in your dream despite the challenges.