24. Hidden Potential

How do we know what we are capable of, until we actually face a situation? In interviews, I have heard first-time Gold Medallists say, ‘I have spent my whole life preparing for this moment’! But for the regular mere mortals amongst us, we can often achieve and surprise ourselves with what we are capable of, when faced with everyday challenges too! Sometimes, my initial response may be of anxiety and worry that something may prove to be too difficult. However, the end result has often brought forth a sense of fulfilment of having tapped into a potential I did not know I had within me.

When we wake up every morning, it is not always possible to anticipate what can unfold during the day. Routine work can still present new challenges. How these are overcome, is determined by our attitude. When I have come with an open mind and clarity of purpose, the circumstance invariably proves successful. But, when I go in feeling not capable or confident, there is more likelihood of things going wrong. There is truth in the saying, ‘if you think you can then you can. When you think you can’t, then you can’t. Either way you are right”.

I have to admit that when I am in the midst of a very tricky situation, I do not always enjoy the ride. However, if I handle it with patience, perseverance and kindness (to myself too!) then I discover new depths that I did not know I had. Life always throws up mirrors with which we can see what progress we have made and the potential we have hidden within us. Like the acorn that holds a whole oak tree within it, we carry hidden potential that we may never tap into!