What I would say to young entrepreneurs is there's so many moments in your life where you have these dreams, and people are trying to protect you, and they say, perhaps, friends, family, parents sometimes, they don't agree with it, they think, 'This is just too high of a hurdle.' And I don't agree with that.

Howard Schultz’s quote speaks directly to young entrepreneurs and the challenges they face when pursuing their dreams. He acknowledges that during the journey of entrepreneurship, there will be many moments when others, particularly friends, family, and parents, may try to protect them from potential failure by discouraging their ambitions. These well-meaning individuals often argue that the dreams of entrepreneurs are too risky or unrealistic, suggesting that the hurdles they wish to overcome are too high. Schultz, however, firmly disagrees with this perspective.

Schultz’s statement reflects his belief in the power of perseverance and the importance of taking risks. Rather than listening to those who doubt their goals, he encourages young entrepreneurs to trust their instincts and keep moving forward despite the obstacles. He emphasizes that the hurdles in front of them, no matter how daunting, are not impossible to overcome. The underlying message is that success often requires going beyond conventional thinking and defying the doubts of others.

The quote also highlights Schultz's own journey as an entrepreneur, particularly his role in the transformation of Starbucks. Schultz himself faced significant skepticism and opposition as he worked to revolutionize the coffee industry, but he was unwavering in his belief that the dream was achievable. By sharing his perspective, he inspires young entrepreneurs to push through the barriers set by others and pursue their vision with confidence and determination.

Ultimately, Schultz’s quote is a message of encouragement and resilience. It teaches young entrepreneurs to believe in themselves and their dreams, even when the path ahead seems difficult or when others question their ability to succeed. The core message is to keep striving, take risks, and not be deterred by the doubts or fears of those who may not fully understand or support their vision.