What I learned about dreaming from Sal Khan
Recently, I heard Sal Khan (founder, Khan Academy) at a virtual conference about the future of education. I was inspired by his continued belief in what he calls ‘delusional dreams’.
My three lessons:
1. Have the courage to believe. When Khan Academy started, Sal’s dream of a free world-class education for anyone, anywhere seemed delusional. Today, he has made it possible.
2. Continue to change the goalpost. Sal Khan has achieved so much of what he originally thought was an audacious dream. Now, he continues to aspire for more. One new ambition for example, is for student work on Khan Academy to be used for college admissions one day!
3. Stay resilient, but also joyful. It takes time to convert naysayers into believers. He needed truckloads of patience to get through his first year, but he kept believing in his vision till he got Bill Gates’ support. But his advice – don’t take yourself too seriously. Enjoy what you do, and it will come through.
Most of us in the impact space work hard to be resilient, but I have made a note to self to remember joy! And remind those I work with too, as they chase their dreams.
So – what are the ‘delusional’ dreams you want to chase?
