Three Minute Leadership -The Limits of Our Potential Await Us
To: The Great Leaders Who Have a Passion for Continuous Learning
In his 2005 TED presentation, Why Did I Ski to the North Pole, Ben Saunders, pioneering polar explorer and record-breaking long-distance skier, shares his incredible journey. “It is a journey that is right at the limit of human capability,” he says, “… the equivalent of 31 marathons back to back.” The “why” of doing this magnificent journey he explains:
“For me, this is about exploring human limits…. And it’s also about potential on a personal level… a chance to explore the limits – really push the limits of my own potential, see how far they stretch. And on a wider scale, it amazes me how people go through life just scratching the surface of their potential, just doing three or four or five percent of what they’re truly capable of.”
Great leaders’ sense of purpose in life drives their pursuit to explore their limits. They embrace with passion the words of Og Mandino: “I am here for a purpose and that purpose is to grow into a mountain, not to shrink to a grain of sand. Henceforth will I apply ALL my efforts to become the highest mountain of all and I will strain my potential until it cries for mercy.” “ALL my efforts” is their choice, their decision to stretch and relentlessly challenge their limits. Wilma Rudolph’s said: “Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”
Saunders concluded his remarks saying: “I have a school report. I was 13 years old, and it’s framed above my desk at home. It says, ‘Ben lacks sufficient impetus to achieve anything worthwhile.’ I think if I’ve learned anything, it’s this: that no one else is the authority on your potential. You’re the only person that decides how far you go and what you’re capable of.” It is the great leaders’ choice, their sacred decision to become that highest mountain, to be more than they ever dreamed they could be. They have chosen to “just do it.” May you explore your human limits… and have fun doing it.
Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!
Mike
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