Have you ever tried anything you initially thought was impossible? Our internal thought process around what’s possible and impossible is an intriguing topic because it is vastly different among individuals. It also has very little to do with what we are physically or mentally capable of. A better question to ask is how often do you test your limits? Not just push your limits but test your limits. This implies that you will reach the point of failure eventually. To try things we feel may be impossible, we must be okay with occasional failure.
I am an avid scuba diver, and my early diving was in the deep cold waters in the Straits of Mackinaw where the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan meet. My dive buddies and I had logged several dives on multiple shipwrecks in the frigid Great Lakes preserve. Then it happened. I found myself in a large cloud of silt 80 feet below the surface, and completely lost my bearings. My emergency ascent left me physically unscathed but placed something in my mind that I was unaware of at the time. I was unable to enjoy diving for many years after that event. I was convinced it had become impossible. I kept trying the same dives I had done before without success. I eventually found that gradually increasing my depth was the answer to regaining access to one of my beloved sports that I had thought was impossible.
What is your reaction when things look impossible? Our perspective often dictates what reality is. Are you energized by challenges or do they discourage you?
Can something be truly impossible? Of course, but some are not comfortable with that or choose to be optimistic. I’m okay with that, but I recognize that some things are indeed impossible for me. I’m also aware that I embrace risk, and don’t need to be assured of success when I undertake a new venture. How do you feel about risk? Relationships, business, and education all have varying elements of risk and yet they are all essential parts of our life. Tackle something you thought was impossible today. The size of the task is irrelevant, what matters is that you choose to conquer something today. Set the plans in motion and tell someone about your plans. This will help keep you accountable when your confidence wavers.
This blog is part of a series from the book Discover Your Best Life by Mike Hintz. His personal, professional, and spiritual growth tools are also featured in Northlink Retreats. If this topic resonates with you consider reading the book or attending one of the upcoming retreats.