Many years ago, in college, I took a class in epistemology and metaphysics. Somehow, I managed to come through that experience unscathed. At least I think I did. But while stumbling along the web, I came across this little quote:
“Whether you think you can or can’t either way you are right.”
Henry Ford
Right after reading it, the room seemed to get darker and my monitor brighter. Of course, it is likely that a cloud merely slipped between the sun and my window, slightly attenuating the ambient light, but this is my epiphany and I’ll see it the way I want. Nyah!
Mr. Ford was correct, albeit simplistic, in his assessment. We are the masters of our destiny, if one believes in such concepts. You see, I firmly believe that we are a product of our genetics and our environment. Those two things together work to form our eventual outcome. That does not mean that I believe in fate, but rather that we are presented with various possible fates for every possible action. The ultimate fate is dependent upon our chosen action. That action is chosen based on our experiences born from our genetic makeup and our history.
By genetic makeup, I don’t wish to get into discussions of a political nature. What I mean is that my mother’s and my father’s genes combined to create my genes. That’s my genetic makeup. Period. End of story.
But back to my real story. Every day we are presented with many possible paths. We choose which path to take based upon our current state of mind. If presented with a difficult path, I can either say “I can do it” or “I cannot do it.” Either way, I will prove myself correct. You see, if I say “I cannot do it” and don’t do it, then I was right. If I say “I cannot do it” and then attempt it, it is likely that I will fail because I have psychologically predisposed myself to failure. Therefore, failure would be a success… at failing. Now, if I say “I cannot do it,” but persevere to the point of doing it, I have subconsciously told myself that “I CAN do it.” Sort of like that train we read about as children.
Ok, there are times when things are simply impossible with our current technology or understanding of reality. I can’t make gold out of thin air. I wish I could and no matter how much I tell myself I can, I would be deluding myself. Realistic goals make for achievable results.
In other words, teach yourself to believe in the phrase “I can do it” and you will be much more likely to achieve your goals. That will make life worth living.
