By Shazad

“What would have become of Hercules do you think if there had been no lion, hydra, stag or boar – and no savage criminals to rid the world of? What would he have done in the absence of such challenges? Obviously he would have just rolled over in bed and gone back to sleep. So by snoring his life away in luxury and comfort he never would have developed into the mighty Hercules. And even if he had, what good would it have done him? What would have been the use of those arms, that physique, and that noble soul, without crises or conditions to stir into him action?”

Epictetus. Discourses

Many people discuss the concept of potential and what it means to "live up to your potential," but what does that really entail? How can you tell if you're beginning to understand your abilities? Additionally, how can you avoid going overboard or experiencing burnout? Let’s explore these ideas together.

I like to use this definition from the Cambridge Dictionary English which defines the word “potential” as:

“someone's or something's ability to develop, achieve, or succeed”

What are you meant to do or become? This is something you discover by living life to the fullest. The possibilities are vast, and many individuals are said to have 'reached' their peak in various fields such as sports, business, art, or education. However, many others are still on that journey of discovery, which is often more exciting than actually achieving a specific goal.

There’s a risk involved with seeking potential and fully committing to a goal. However, I believe that this risk is worth taking. It’s known by various names such as burnout, overwhelm, and obsession. This is the risk that all great achievers face in their pursuit of reaching their true potential, and it’s something you must consider if you wish to join their ranks.

To become elite in a particular field, you will need to sacrifice your time and resources, and at times, set aside important relationships. As long as you approach this journey with sincerity, humility, and a clear plan, your inner circle will appreciate your commitment.

It’s crucial to avoid grinding away in your 40s and beyond as you did in your teens and 20s. A shift in methods and resources is necessary as you age, allowing you to prioritize a well-rounded life. This approach helps you avoid burnout and fosters meaningful relationships.

For most people, the 40s represent the second half of life, a period where you must focus on playing smarter, not just harder. It’s a time to optimize your journey and smooth out any rough edges as you strive for higher levels of achievement. Unlike sports heroes who may reach a peak and retire, truly great potential seekers can continue to grow in their field throughout their lives. They possess the wisdom and mental resilience to keep developing until the very end.

This shift in mindset is essential when you have a family, responsibilities, and a life outside the hustle of your youth.

I hope this inspires all readers to not just start but keep going pushing themselves into higher states of achievement. You have it within you as a human being to learn, grow, and excel. You can discover it and Live Awesome! The Sky is NOT the Limit!

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