For the last few years, my 11-year-old, Bianca, has talked about her big dream.

For the last few years, my 11-year-old daughter, Bianca, has talked about her big dream.

She wants to go to Stanford.

But Stanford is one of the country’s most selective institutions.

It’s also one of the more expensive.

Realistically, the likelihood of Bianca landing there is slim.

Recently, we took a Pacific Coast road trip together.

Our trip was filled with magnificent views and precious father-daughter bonding.

As we drove from Big Sur toward San Francisco, an idea sparked.

We could diverge from our original route and visit Stanford.

Unannounced to Bianca, I changed the GPS coordinates.

I wanted Bianca’s dream to feel more tangible (even if it’s unlikely).

I wanted Bianca to experience the campus.

I wanted Bianca to visualize herself there.

Not because it is necessarily the destination she will reach.

But because the dream is worth striving for.

As parents, supporting our children’s aspirations, no matter how unreachable they seem, is important.

It encourages creativity and innovation.

It teaches resilience.

It fosters a growth mindset.

Bianca’s dreams may evolve.

Or she may not even get in.

However, the journey and valuable skills she acquires along the way are what truly matter.

The experience got me thinking about my team.

They, too, have dreams.

Moving up the ladder.

Developing new skills.

Creative opportunities.

Making a difference.

Maybe even starting their own business.

As organizational leaders, do we even know our team members’ dreams?

If we do, how are we supporting their pursuit?

Just as with my daughter, supporting employees can have significant benefits.

It promotes employee engagement.

It fosters creativity and innovation.

It contributes to a positive company culture.

It encourages skill development.

It develops future leaders.

Moving forward, I plan to focus more on understanding and supporting my team’s dreams.

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.