Have you ever looked at something impressive that someone is doing (or has already done) and thought: “I could never do that?” I know I have.
It’s curious, because the evidence is right there in front of us that it’s possible to do; that a human being can do it. I’ll assume that if you’re reading—and comprehending—this that you are a human being also. If a human can do it, and we are human, surely we could do it too.
Now, some things might be more difficult for us to do. I’m not 6’7”, so it will undoubtedly be harder for me to dunk. Unlike Alex Mack, I didn’t get splashed with GC-161 chemical goo and consequently lack the ability to transform into liquid mercury and slip covertly under doors.
People thought a sub-4:00 mile was impossible for years until someone ran a sub-4:00 mile. Afterwards, several other people ran a sub-4:00 mile. Climbing Everest. Powered flight. Space travel. Impossible until they were not, and then an explosion of achievement.
Most of us aren’t even looking to break records when we assume that we’re not capable, we’re trying to do something well-trodden by many. The precedent exists. It’s not extraordinary, but extra ordinary.
If someone can do it—if someone has done it—assume that you can do it also. Just start, try hard, and keep going. Try to surprise yourself with what you can do; don’t worry about trying to surprise others.
Join the ranks of the extra ordinary.