Stand in the Possibilities

People can be all too quick to tell us what we can’t do or why it might be a bad idea. It’s almost as if they delight in the telling sometimes. Sometimes we don’t even need anyone else. We can do a fine job of telling ourselves why we will fail!

What if we take a stand?

A stand against the naysayers that hold us back and against our own critical selves. A stand for the possibility of change, growth, and success.

What if we take a stand in the possibilities? What does that mean? What would it look like?

Stand in the Possibilities.

That phrase has bounced around in my head for the last week. Does it just mean being hopeful for change? Positive thinking? I think it’s more.

To stand for something brings to mind people committing to a cause, a belief. Standing for values and convictions. Refusing to back down, even when it’s hard, unpopular, or unlikely.

Possibility suggests an openness to other options, realities, ideas, and solutions. It’s a fantastic word. I’m picturing the movie, Independence Day. The Earth is outnumbered by aliens with advanced technology.  The only solution is dependent on a plan that is unlikely to succeed. But is it possible? YES! Just that slim possibility is enough to generate hope and give us the best motivational speech by a fake U.S. president.

“We will not go quietly into the night! We will not vanish without a fight! We’re going to live on! We’re going to survive! Today we celebrate our Independence Day!” 

-Pres. Thomas J. Whitmore

Still gets me every time!

I want to challenge you, and myself, this week to stand in the possibilities. How do you do that?

First, have a growth mindset. Believe in yourself. Believe that you are capable of growth and change. You are capable of great things! View challenges as opportunities and failures as part of the learning process.

Second, see beyond the limitations and obstacles. Instead, focus on what could be achieved or created. Dream big. Create that vision in your head. That’s your focus.

Third, embrace the unknown with optimism. Allow yourself to explore new ideas and take risks. What will happen? Who knows, but it could be the most amazing experience of your life!

It’s not easy to go against the status quo, so be prepared for pushback. Some may not like the stand you’ve taken, especially if it involves you putting yourself first for a change. You may get the most resistance from yourself. That’s why I used the word “challenge.”

What possibilities will you stand in?

The possibility of a healthier you? The possibility of a job change or going back to school? The possibility of an exciting new hobby or sport? The possibility to let yourself be exactly who you were made to be?

The possibilities are endless!

"Stand in your own possibilities, not someone else’s limitations."

– Anonymous