What if you could achieve the impossible?
It was my first day of college and I was eager to begin. I went to the pre-med advisor and shared my plan: "Since I love chemistry but need a lot of biology, I have chosen to double major in biology and chemistry." She looked at me as if I was crazy. She told me that my grades would be poor and I would never be able to get into medical school. I was crushed. Until that moment, I had never heard that there was a goal I couldn't achieve. My parents always told me I could do anything. I had proved it to myself by acing all of life through high school. I was certain a double biology and chemistry major would be no match for me. But here was the pre-med advisor -- the foremost authority on getting into medical school -- telling me that my goal was unattainable. I had entered her office with confidence. I walked out doubting myself. For the first time in my life, I doubted my abilities.
Fortunately, my next stop was the math teacher, Dr. Iskra. He sensed something was wrong and asked me about it. When I told him, he laughed with a snort. He told me that the way he saw it, I might succeed and I might not; but the only way to find out was to do both. And if it got too hard, I could always drop one. My eyes widened. But of course! His advice was so practical.I would attempt the impossible, and if it didn't work out, I would still be OK.
When people tell us that something is impossible, they are speaking their truth. From their perspective, they can't see what you see. When they put together all their life experience until that moment, they cannot see you succeed in the way you say you can. And they are correct (for them): Given their life experience and perspective, they cannot not see you achieving your goal. Therefore, it is impossible to them. But is it impossible for you? Only you can decide.
When someone tells you your dream is impossible, you get to decide. You can decide to take on their belief and make it your own. Or you can look for a type of Dr. Iskra and have a different belief. At the end of the day, you are choosing. Whose voice will you believe? Choose carefully. Because what you choose to believe can and will shape your career outcome.
Even when everyone around you hates their job, it does not have to be your norm:
Decide not to quit: If you are at a point in your career in which you wonder whether it was all worth it, don't quit yet. Remember that it takes time to see a return on investment.
Rediscover your passion: Reconnect with the initial excitement that led to choosing an academic career. Take time to rediscover your passion.
Learn from happy academics: Seek out and learn from colleagues who genuinely enjoy their academic careers.
Embrace courage: If you are going to carve out a fulfilling academic career, courage is required. Be bold. Don't be afraid to go against the norm.
This week, I invite you to uncover your buried dreams. A dream you once believed was possible but now think is unattainable? Share this dream with a believing friend. And watch your dream come alive again.
What if you dared to believe for the impossible? What if you stopped the inaction of unbelief and started acting like a believer and taking action.
What would your career look like?
What would you do that would have people shaking their head in disbelief?
How would it affect your life?
What would future generations say about you?
What would your future self say about you?
The impossible awaits you. Will you take on the challenge?
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