How Does Impossible Change to Possible?

By Roger Crawford. This was originally published on Roger's blog.

What would you like to attempt that you often thought was impossible? Is it really out of your reach, or is there a reason you do not believe you can do it?

​Too often, we underestimate ourselves and overestimate others. Below are four possibility-busting beliefs that often make a difference between what is possible and what is impossible.

1. Dwelling on the Negative
Remember the old song by Johnny Mercer, “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive, E-Li-Mi-Nate the Negative.”  One way to ensure failure is having the negative belief that you cannot succeed before you even try. Our mindset can sometimes convince us that something is impossible before we even make our initial attempt. When we mistakenly believe that we lack the talent or resources to achieve our aspirations, it paralyzes our progress. Here is why having a negative perspective can eliminate potential possibilities: By repeatedly focusing on why something cannot be done, you will look for evidence to support that belief.

2. Defined by Disabilities
There is a clear difference between real handicaps and imaginary ones. Real handicaps are limitations that can be overcome, adapted to and accepted. For example, in my life having only three fingers was a clear indication that I would not be a concert pianist.

Once you accept your limitations, everything outside of that becomes a possibility. Do not spend your valuable time and resources focused on your deficits and fixing what appears to be broken.

Instead, focus on your unique strengths, and build on those assets. If you lead with your limitations, it’s like challenging a ram to a head-butting contest. While you may have a positive attitude and give it your very best effort, you may gain little more than a headache.

3. Anxiety creates imaginary handicaps 
It’s important not to confuse fear with anxiety. Anytime we step out of our comfort zone, experiencing some fear is a normal, natural response to a new situation. Anxiety, however, occurs when our reaction is an abnormal response to our circumstances. In other words, it is anticipating or imagining a negative outcome regardless of the situation or opportunity.

A focus on conceivable failure and disappointment is unrealistic and, therefore, imaginary. Many amazing possibilities are often unrealized, not because of real obstacles, but because of self-imposed limitations.

4. Dreaming Small
Marketing guru Seth Godin, defines “going to the edge” as taking an idea to the extreme of possibility and working back from there to areas of thought and creativity that are more reasonable and doable. This illustrates the power of bold dreams as the catalyst for maximum achievement.

All of us have the ability to conceive an idea, plan, and nurture it to success. So, why not make your dreams so compelling that they stir your soul and stimulate your motivation. This vision will inspire you to stay focused, put forth an extraordinary effort, while consistently maintaining a positive outlook.

You have the purpose, passion, and perseverance needed to achieve your dreams. Remember, the distance between impossible and possible is often found between the ears!

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