This familiar question asked by American pastor Robert Schuller has inspired many of us to set and accomplish our goals. The quote takes on greater meaning because it is in the form of a question. Albert Einstein commented, “If I had an hour to solve a problem and my life depended on it, I would use the first fifty-five minutes determining the proper question to ask, for once I knew the proper question, I could solve the problem in less than five minutes.”
What would you attempt to do if you knew you wouldn’t fail? I remember feeling very uncomfortable when I read this question for the first time. I had a startling self-realization. As Jack Lemmon so aptly stated, “Failure seldom stops you. What stops you is the fear of failure.” It is the fear of failure that constrains us and stands in our way of attempting great things. Fear is paralyzing. “Fight, flight or freeze” are the common human physiological responses to fear. I tend to “freeze” when I am afraid. Fear is a painful emotion, and I prefer to avoid painful emotions.
As I approach the half-century mark in my trips around the sun (my birthdays), I have learned a few things. Life is not about knowing all of the answers right away. I have lived into the answers. I’ve figured things out along the way. I have taken risks and have learned from my failures. Once I actually get started on a project, the fear dissipates and my passion takes over to help me accomplish my goals.
The inspiration for this blog post came from watching a Regina Dugan’s TED Talk titled From Mach-20 Glider to Hummingbird Drone. I encourage you to watch it. Regina Dugan ends her talk with the advice she received from Jason Harley, a colleague who helped her believe that she could do hard things. Jason wrote, “There is only time enough to iron your cape and back to the skies for you.”
As you consider your education and your opportunities, ask yourself “What would I attempt to accomplish if I knew I couldn’t fail?” Then go do it. You can do more than you think you can.
Cathy Davis is an Education Specialist focused on women and education in the Utah State Office of Education.
