Written by: Vickie Sullivan | July 23, 2024
Do You Have What It Takes to Unlock Your True Potential?
When I answer questions from clients about what works in this crazy, crowded marketplace, this question inevitably arises: Do I have potential?
The answer lies in the stories we tell ourselves.
Most folks believe potential resides within talent. The question they’re really asking me, though, is, do I have the talent to be seen as the to-go resource? Are my gifts good enough?
My answer to you all is yes, you are good enough. Your gifts are needed out there. The bad news, however, is it doesn’t matter. Talent is ubiquitous.
What really impacts your potential is whether you have the drive to go far, far beyond your comfort zone. Unfortunately, you don’t know the real answer until opportunity knocks. As boxer Mike Tyson once said, “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”
2 Signs You Aren’t Ready to Make a Big Change
That’s why I look hard at how someone reacts when they’re thrown for a loop. Here are two reactions that scream, “I’m not ready!”
• Whoa, I gotta wait for something else to happen. When a path presents itself, many of us look for ways to delay the decision instead of brainstorming ideas to make it work. We tell ourselves all the reasons why it’s not a good time. A common diversion: I’ll do what it takes when (enter outside forces) happen first. And guess what? That thing never happens. Those who are ready say yes first and know they’ll figure it out.
• Going halfway is good enough for now. This story is a more positive spin on the reaction above. It goes something like this: I can’t do that, so I’ll do this instead. And I can make progress so that I can make the bolder moves later. The thing is, a half-way approach not only fails, but it consumes precious time and resources.
We often want something so badly that we think we’re ready, but we’re not. After clarifying your best result, ask yourself: What am I willing to do to get there? What am I not willing to do to get there? Your answers will give you a true sense of your potential.
Listen: What to do When You’re Not Ready to Go All in on Change
Now Read This:
- Fear Factor: How to Go Outside Your Comfort Zone
- Outsmart Your Competition. Attract More Opportunities