Pushing Beyond the Possible: When Real Change Happens
Have you ever been told that your dreams are “impossible”—that what you hope for is just a “pipe dream”?
The term dates back to the 19th century, when it described the vivid but unrealistic visions people had under the influence of opium pipes. Today, it’s come to mean any idea or ambition that others dismiss as impractical or out of reach. But, isn’t it often that these “pipe dreams”—the ones that seem impossible—are actually the ones that push us to break through boundaries and take us to the next level?
As a Black man who was raised in foster care, I’ve had more than one pipe dream myself. As the CEO of a bank that’s dedicated to Shared Prosperity, I’m blessed to say that thousands of our clients have as well, and our region is stronger because of them.
I can tell you from experience that these dreams or goals — even if they feel impossible or too late — can be within reach if you do three things:
- Reframe your thinking and commit fully and faithfully to making it happen.
- Begin immediately.
- Surround yourself with people who support your vision and lift you up.
As our clients’ trusted advisors, our purpose is to help them and our local communities thrive. Over the past year that we’ve been in Kansas City, we have invested millions in local businesses — businesses that have generated local jobs and tax revenue, and contributed to the tremendous growth of the Kansas City region. This level of growth isn’t possible without pipe dreams.
So, I ask you this: As a local business leader, if you’re not thinking about what others call impossible, then what are you thinking about? The possible is comfortable. If everyone agrees that something is possible, it’s already common. And common just means widespread, not extraordinary.
I hope you’re nurturing a pipe dream. I hope you’re daring to imagine life differently—that you’re envisioning yourself more blessed, more fulfilled. It may require a shift in mindset. Rather than focusing on getting by, what would happen if you aimed for more? What if you placed as much emphasis on purpose as you do on profits?
The power of imagination allows us to see possibilities beyond our current reality, inspiring creativity, innovation, and hope. It gives us the ability to dream, solve problems, and shape a better future by thinking beyond limitations. Imagination is essential for navigating this world, leading our companies, and guiding our teams. You’ve likely been around people with no imagination, and it’s your pipe dream that might spark their vision. Vision ignites passion.
The Midwest is a region of boundless potential. I hope you see yourself in a place that’s not yet common—because that’s where real change begins. When you’re ready, my colleagues and I are standing by to help you make the “impossible” possible. Because when you DREAM BIG, we all RISE TOGETHER.
Originally published in the Kansas City Business Journal’s Ask the Expert section in January of 2025 by Orv Kimbrough, Chairman and CEO at Midwest BankCentre