The bad guy in a dream often is meant to represent what's been bothering you. Your fears become personified in dreams and can chase you, break into your house, and be all sorts of bad (whatever your mind can conjure up)! The question is, how did you interact with him (or her or them) in the dream? Did you chase him off or hide to protect yourself? Did you fight or just feel angry but flee instead?

Do not be afraid of him when you wake up. Instead figure out who he is! Give him a name and decide how you want to handle him the next time he shows up in your dream. You might be able to alter or even participate in your dream the next time; and since it's your dream, you might be able to create your own happy ending.