The ancestor of every action is a thought.
Adidas, the athletic shoe company, developed an ad campaign some years ago with the theme Impossible is not a fact. It is an opinion. I am not sure how well the slogan sold athletic shoes, but it sure is a good reminder of how to live a five star life! It got me thinking about how often we give up on an activity because, at some level, we have adopted the belief it is impossible. And we go through all kinds of internal conversations to reinforce our belief. This internal conversation is an internal operating system working as our limiting paradigm . . . an internal belief we adopt, usually unwittingly, limiting our effectiveness. So my question is: What have you internalized as an “impossible fact” that is actually no more than a well-entrenched opinion? And how can you shift your belief system? The first step is to identify and challenge the belief. For example, I have had a goal for the past several years of publishing a collection of essays in a book. And while I may never have told myself it was impossible, I have managed to compile a fine litany of excuses about why it was not happening: It must be the right time, What can I write that has not already been written? I do not have the time. You get the picture. Now take one of your unrealized dreams and ask what you have told yourself. Is this belief a fact or simply a well-rationalized opinion? Opinions are formed by us and can definitely be changed by us. So what is next? Let’s assume you have challenged your opinion and are ready to proceed with your formerly impossible dream or goal. The next step is to make the commitment . . . I mean really make the commitment to make it happen There is a well-known statement written by W.H. Murray, who was part of a Scottish Himalayan expedition, in which he eloquently addresses the power of commitment. Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans; that the moment on definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of events occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. The third step. Are you really committed to this dream or goal? If so, then the natural step is action. The final few lines of Murray’s poetic expression speak to this as well. He writes, “I have learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets: Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin. Boldness has genius and magic.” What action could you take in the next five minutes to signal providence you are ready? It could be something as simple as making a telephone call, creating a game plan or doing research. The size of the action does not matter; the intent of the action does. A fellow writer recently reminded me of not knowing what to do is the biggest cop out of all. They went on to say when they are facing a huge challenge where the unknown weighs heavily, they take the next step that occurs to them. This invariably leads to the next step and the one after this and the one after this. It is taking the action setting you free from the unknown. You learn as you go. Just three steps: challenge the belief, make the commitment and take actions consistent with your goal; and you will be on your way! And maybe, just maybe, the impossible dream you have held for so long is already on its way to being born. Thank you, Adidas. Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.
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AuthorMusings from Gammon Irons. To desire and strive to be of some service to the world, to aim at doing something which shall really increase the happiness and welfare and virtue of mankind - this is a choice which is possible for us all; and surely a good haven to sail. Archives
February 2020
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