Perception
There are so many factors that can hold a person back in this life.
Many are circumstantial – a lack of connections, money, education, a stable home environment. These conditions are outside of our control, especially when we’re growing up.
But one of the biggest setbacks a person can face is one that can be practiced: your own perception of what you’re capable of.
In my years of experience, I’ve found that the defining characteristic that sets the massively successful apart is simply the belief that they are capable of achieving what they want.
That’s it.
If I could give a piece of advice to anyone starting out, in any field really, it would be to allow your imagination to expand to the belief that you are capable of achieving great things. And beyond capability, that you’re worthy.
It’s a hard line to toe, because there’s nothing more unattractive than overconfidence, especially when it’s unearned. But that’s not what I’m talking about here.
It’s not hubris – it’s chutzpah.
It’s that scrappy mentality. That way of thinking that says, “well, if someone’s gonna do it, why shouldn’t it be me?”
It’s that sense of purpose, of knowing that you can do more than what you’re already doing.
When I was getting started I used to scale back before I’d even begun. I’d make a plan, then look it over, afraid that I’d overdone it.
Now, I challenge myself to do the opposite. I make a plan and then I ask myself:
“Are you thinking big enough?”