I’ve recently started a new book called “The Think Big Manifesto” by Michael Port and it’s turning out to be another great source of inspiration. There was one passage that resonated with me immediately because I could relate to it so easily, and I thought I would share it with you here.
“When we take risks we scare other people (and most of all ourselves), because those others see the glimmer of possibilities that they are not even reaching for, because the potential of our success makes them face their own universe, so constricted by their small thoughts. Know that we reach for what we aim for, so there is no choice but to aim high if we are to succeed.“
I’ll have more on this book and my own thoughts and experiences on “thinking big” soon, but so far a great read and highly recommended.
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Port’s quotation is reminiscent of what Robert Browning (1812-1889) said in one of his poems: “Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his grasp–or what’s a heaven for?”
I like your blog posts very much. Keep ‘em coming, Rob!
Warmest regards,
Jim
Well quoted – and so relevant – thanks.
What this also brings to mind is this quotation, apparently by Marianne Williamson, featured prominently in the popular movie Akeelah and the Bee:
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
Thanks Steve – that’s an excellent quote and I know the feeling very well. Reaching our potential should be a life-long endeavor, and encouraging others to do the same even more important…especially when you’re a parent!