“Imagine if schools and society at large championed such dreams. If we encouraged young minds to dream not of acquiring things but of improving lives, solving pressing challenges, and creating a better world.
– Sanctus International School Founder, YT Ng
Over a family dinner one weekend, the word “dream” took center stage in a broader conversation about “dream cars.” It struck me how common such discussions are in society—a dream car, a dream job, a dream house. These aspirations are often celebrated as markers of success. Yet, I believe the phrasing itself can be misleading, subtly shaping our priorities in ways that may not serve our deeper well-being or the greater good.
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with having a “dream” of something, the way this term is often used in materialistic contexts can lead to unintended consequences. For many, a “dream” becomes a fixation on possessions or status symbols, fostering ambitions that are ultimately self-indulgent rather than meaningful. Take, for instance, the notion of a dream car like a Ferrari. What does owning such a vehicle truly contribute? Beyond a fleeting sense of accomplishment or admiration, does it add value to one’s character or society at large?
Unfortunately, society has largely normalized this pursuit of personal milestones as a pathway to success, creating a cycle of chasing dreams that often lead to transient satisfaction. What’s rarely acknowledged is the emptiness that can follow the achievement of such goals. Once the initial euphoria fades, a new dream often takes its place—another possession, another accolade—continuing the cycle. This relentless chase not only fails to deliver lasting happiness but also diverts time, energy, and resources away from pursuits that could create meaningful impact.
Contrast this with the kind of dream articulated by Martin Luther King Jr. in his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech—a vision of justice, equality, and human dignity. This was not a dream for personal gain but a dream that inspired collective progress. It was transformative, selfless, and enduring. Dreams like these—those that enhance our character, contribute to societal well-being, and foster lasting fulfillment—are the ones truly worth striving for.
Imagine if schools and society at large championed such dreams. If we encouraged young minds to dream not of acquiring things but of improving lives, solving pressing challenges, and creating a better world, how different our collective aspirations might be. These are the dreams that inspire purpose, resilience, and true joy—dreams that don’t expire once achieved but instead ripple outward to benefit others.
In rethinking what it means to “dream,” let us move beyond the superficial and embrace aspirations that elevate both ourselves and our communities. The resources we spend chasing transient desires could be redirected toward visions that leave a lasting legacy, reminding us that the greatest dreams are those that connect us to something larger than ourselves. This should be the “dream” Sanctus International School is championing for.
Sanctus International School Founder,
YT Ng