People who succeed look beyond their shortcomings, imperfections, temporary setbacks, and any self-defeating thoughts associated with those experiences. In fact, many documentaries featuring people with so-called physical limitations go on to accomplish things that you and I look at in awe. That is a limitless mindset. What flows out of a limitless mindset is a deep desire to "be the best" and "never quit,” which in my opinion (and my actions) include the following:

 

• Being the smartest person in the room.

• Being willing to out-practice (not out work because work is only time) anyone to master a particular skill.

• Testing your abilities.

 

This is not an easy path, and it comes with remarkable sacrifice. Therefore, the reality may be that “being the best” is not the right goal. Maybe being “one of the best” is a better fit. Neither are right or wrong. However, it’s a matter of realizing your priorities and how far it is you actually wish to grow, with the understanding that it comes with the expense of time and effort. You need to determine what is right for you depending on your family/partner/life circumstances.

 

Among my coaching clients, one of my primary techniques in the first encounter is to detect what it is the person is most passionate about. Among some people it’s obvious, but for most it is like a hidden treasure. Sometimes people are ashamed to reveal it, as if it’s a sign of weakness if it has nothing to do with their current job or career trajectory. I have found that identifying people’s passion is central in helping them identify “what matters,” and how to actually ignite and cultivate the limitless mindset. If one is not passionate, there’s no energy backing the objective of success. Passion is emotional, and every single client has an emotional reaction with me when I articulate it for them one way or another. Some people shine with a beaming smile, others shed tears, and others have a look of wonder and discovery. This is how you know if you are passionate about what you are doing, and if that passion can ignite your limitless mindset.

 

The Exercise:

When you were a child what gave you the greatest happiness? How would you characterize that experience or skill as an adult? How does that experience, talent, or skill manifest in your professional role? If you had a magic wand, what would you spend a good portion of your working life doing? Why aren't you doing it?