Impossible?

Impossible. I really don’t like that word. I am extremely familiar with it, but I definitely don’t like it. The thought that something I want to do, to have, or to be is “impossible” makes me feel as though I have been punched in the stomach. I have always been brought up to think that nothing is impossible if you really put your mind to it (tell me you’re having flashbacks to grade school right now too). My family and teachers would tell me things like “nothing is impossible, the word itself says “I’m possible!” (Audrey Hepburn). And in my optimistic hopeful moments, I would believe it and it would guide me to pursue those lofty goals and dreams I’ve always had.

Yet the rational, and therefore somewhat pessimistic part of my brain, knows there are some things that are, in fact, impossible. For instance, me becoming naturally tan. In case you don’t know me, I am extremely pale. Probably one of the palest people out there. You know Snow White? I could be her sister. During the summer I will burn several times, but my skin will never darken once the red goes away. Me being tan? That is an impossibility I will accept. Another example would be trying to slam a revolving door (I’m sure all you can think about now is trying to slam a revolving door just to prove me wrong. Go ahead. I dare you to try it. Send me video).

Though some things are impossible, I hate to think that my goals and dreams would be part of that category. Sure it is unlikely that I will win the lottery and I probably won’t find the cure for cancer, but shouldn’t I have the right to dream of those things without those dreams being labeled as “impossible”? Even if the possibility of those dreams occurring is a billion to one, there’s still a chance.

As I grow older (not to imply that I am old), it seems the chance of some dreams coming true is less and less possible. This is easier to realize when you’ve had a bad day (aka today). The little pessimist in me wants to say it’s impossible and just give up. Today I am a little beaten down and I can’t make that little voice in my head shut up.

Then I remember that giving up is a cowardly way to approach life. In my heart, I know I won’t give up. I will push forward, I will pursue my goals, and I will make sure the people who doubted me see when I reach those goals (oh yes, I will reach them). Some days it’s just hard to hold on to that motivation and keep going.

Pushing yourself towards your goals, especially those you so desperately want to reach, is extremely exhausting. Some people push too hard, burn out, and give up. This is a point that I don’t want to reach (and neither should you). To avoid burning out and giving up, you have to take a step back and treat yourself to some downtime. Then you can wake up with energy and enthusiasm to conquer the  following day.

Remember, not everything is impossible. You can reach your dreams and goals, but it won’t happen overnight. If your mind is giving up, give it a rest and then keep going.

“You get to the mountain top one step at a time. You can take a break, but you must keep moving forward.” – Unknown