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The American Dream states that if you're hardworking, consistent, and determined, you can get ahead, do well for yourself, and enjoy a good life here in the United States. This outlook on life has motivated many people to start businesses, take risks, and otherwise chart their own courses in life.

Unfortunately, a growing number of Americans feel left behind. Some people also believe they've been robbed of the American Dream and deprived of opportunities that would help them get ahead.

Others maintain that upward mobility and other possibilities are only available to folks with wealth and connections. While not everyone has given up on the American Dream, the number of people who truly believe in it has considerably declined in recent years.

The latest on public belief in the American Dream

Yesterday, a poll conducted by Chicago NORC showed that merely 36% of people in the country believe in the validity of the American Dream.

Sadly, there's been an ongoing decline in Americans who think hard work can get them ahead. Back in 2012, 53% agreed that the American Dream applies. Though in 2016, only 48% still shared this sentiment.

Unfortunately, the ongoing regression of belief tracks with rising problems for Americans. Many people have faced struggles with paying the bills, finding childcare, getting work, and otherwise making ends meet.

The instability happening both in the United States and around the world likewise remains a contributing factor to people feeling uncertain about what the future holds.

A trend worth changing

Needless to say, it doesn't bode well to have nearly two thirds of the country no longer believing in the American Dream. US leaders of all political leanings would do well to look at this data and consider what policies could change it.

Republicans and Democrats alike have each proposed various action plans that they believe will collectively benefit America. However, polls this year have also reflected people's growing malaise that's harbored towards both major political parties.

At the end of the day, a lack of faith in the American Dream extends far beyond partisan politics. The solution to restoring this faith will also require a think-outside-the-box approach.