Do You Dream Fearlessly?

Tech billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates says dreaming fearlessly starts with finding something that excites you at a young age: “Creating a sense of confidence and something that you gain passion toward, that’s where you can even surprise yourself at the opportunities that generates.”

American Idol superstar Jordin Sparks has not taken the straight road to success — and as she points out, achieving your goals is never as simple as walking through a door. And when setbacks come, Sparks has a mantra: “What’s meant for you will never miss you.”

Michael Barbaro, the voice of The New York Times smash hit podcast, The Daily, has often been afraid during his journalism career. His advice? “Lean into your terror.” Saying yes to opportunities that seem scary can lead to greatness.

Swizz Beatz and Timbaland, the masterminds behind the cultural phenomenon Verzuz, say dreaming fearlessly is about persistence — and homework. “It’s easier to dream fearlessly when you have an education,” says Swizz Beatz, who graduated from Harvard Business School in 2017.