21 Jul The Magic of Attempting the Impossible
“So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become inevitable.”
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-Christopher Reeve
Written by: Scott Dinsmore
Average Reading Time: 5.5 minutes
Three weeks ago I thought that running a barefoot 50k Ultra Marathon at 7500 ft. of elevation would be impossible. So did a few others.
Three days ago I found out it wasn’t.
In just a sliver under 8 hours and 24 minutes, after over 31 miles, I wobbled across the finish line of the Tahoe Rim Trail, barefoot-style (In my Vibram’s).
Up until Saturday I’d never run over 15 miles, let alone a marathon, especially at elevation.
I heard all kinds of objections (both from myself and others). But you haven’t even run a marathon. Those barefoot things you call shoes will never give you the support you need. That elevation gain is too much for a first long run. And on it went.
So why did I decide to give it a shot? Because it seemed impossible.
I believed a lot of it for a while and then I just decided what do I have to lose? The worst case is I can’t finish. Who cares? It was impossible anyway, right?
Besides, I had recently read Born to Run and I was fired up about the possibility of the human body. I was dying to test out if I too was ‘Born to Run’. This event was the perfect chance. And I love a good challenge.
For those of you who haven’t read Born to Run, it will dramatically change the way you look at the human body and it’s possibilities. The author tracks an Indian tribe, the Tarahumara, whose members of all ages are able to run hundreds of miles at a time with nothing but thin sandals on their feet. A must read for the physically active. The book discovers:
How and why we as humans are meant to run.
Why barefoot is the least injury-prone way to do it (I’ve been running in Vibram barefoot running shoes ever since).
That pure love for running is what makes extraordinary distance possible.
The unbelievable limits of the mind and body that most of us never come close to reaching.
When was the last time you attempted the impossible?
Over the past 10 years or so I have made it a habit to attempt what others and/or myself have considered impossible. It makes for the best challenge in the world and the results are magical no matter what happens. Let me explain.
I’ve seen the impossible come true way too many times to not try otherwise. People have a tendency to use this word all too often. So often that it gives the world an excuse not to live up to our full potential. Just because someone says you can’t do something doesn’t mean you can’t. It just means someone thinks you can’t. Imagine if Bill Gates, Steve Jobs or Sergey Brin listened to the skeptics in their lives.
When we obey the impossible the result is mediocrity.
Impossible triggers many of us to stop short of what we’re capable of. It keeps us from truly testing the edge. And without knowing our limits, how will we ever experience our dreams?
The Benefits of Attempting the Impossible:
1. There are no expectations. So often we attempt things where there are standards by which we are quickly judged. And even if no one else is paying attention, we are our own worst critics. So much of unhappiness and disappointment comes from mismanaged expectations. The impossible has the lowest expectations of all. If you fail, who cares? It was impossible to begin with. Try being underpreapared sometime. It’s liberating.
2. There’s less competition. The majority of people are trained to listen to and shut down at the sight the impossible things in life. This leaves the field wide open for you. Oddly it is the most audacious goals that have the least competition. It’s the mediocre ones that everyone is clamoring over. If you want to leave your competition in the dust, simply attempt something they’d never dream of trying.
3. Growth is guaranteed. The point of attempting the impossible is not to always find victory. The person who consistently tests the impossible will experience more failure that the one who always settles for the average. But the former will also experience many more outrageous accomplishments. There is no failure as long as you’re learning. With every expereince comes a lesson. Big lessons come from testing the impossible. Either way you will be a new person for having tried.
4. You might just get it. It’s true that not everything is possible. But how can you ever know if you don’t try? One thing is for sure: Your chances of doing it are 0% if you never try. Give it a crack and you just might surprise yourself and succeed. The victory will expand your realm of what’s possible. The ripple effect throughout your life will be amazing. If you accomplish enough impossible things, you’ll be unstoppable.
What’s the worst case scenario?
Fear is usually the number one reason for not doing something. But ask yourself what’s so scary. What’s the worst that can happen? For me it was not finishing. Big deal. I was underpreapred anyway.
You’ll often find your worse case to be right where you were before you ever tried. This goes for starting a business, leaving your job, asking someone out or just about anything else. So you quit your job to start a business. If it fails then you’ll probably end up at a similar job as you were before. If your current situation is your worst case, what could you possibly have to lose?
Reframe the impossible.
The thought of an Ultra Marathon at elevation scared me at first. So instead I looked at it as an all day hike. We are free to define things however we choose. If someone interesting seems like they’d never say yes to a date, then think of it as making a new friend. If starting a business is too scary, then consider it a hobby. Reframe the impossible until it seems possible.
Everything was impossible until someone decided not to listen.
The world’s inventions have always come from someone who decided to attempt the impossible, and succeeded. Everything was impossible, even ridiculous, until someone invented it.
It was crazy to think the flip of a switch could light up a whole house back when everyone was carrying around candles. Good thing Thomas Edison didn’t think so.
The human body was scientifically incapable of running a four minute mile, right up until Roger Banister went out and did it. Then what happened? 16 people did the same the following 3 years.
But impossible does not have to mean what the world thinks can’t be done. It may be something you’ve felt was personally impossible (like my run) or the things people tell you can’t be done given your life situation. You’re too young, too old, too sick, undereducated or underprepared. Remember, usually the people who tell you this are the ones who never made the attempt.
“Impossible is a word only to be found in the dictionary of fools.”
– Napoleon
Our lives are defined by the impossible.
My life would be worlds different if I’d listened to all the people who told me what I couldn’t or shouldn’t do. So many magnificent experiences with my businesses, relationships and body would have never existed. Think back on your life and I imagine you’d agree.
It’s easy to go through life finding excuses for not doing things. You will produce plenty on your own and the world will provide mountains more. But if you wait to be perfectly prepared to attempt your dreams, you’ll never try anything. The timing is never right. You’ll never have enough experience. You can always prepare a bit more.
Get over it.
Hearing something couldn’t be done has always been my biggest motivator. Why not make it yours? I’d much rather find out for myself than be guided by someone else who might not have even had the courage to try.
The limits of possibility are where all the growth happens. Be it in the world or in your own mind. And a mind without limits is tough to stop. Let it loose!
Be a fighter of the status quo. Just because it hasn’t been done, does not mean it can’t or that it shouldn’t.
Go out and try something the world believes is impossible. Who knows, you might just get it.
“I tell people I’m too stupid to know what’s impossible. I have ridiculously large dreams, and half the time they come true.”
– Debi Thomas
What have you accomplished that the world told you was impossible? How is your life different as a result? Please share in the comments section below.
If you liked this article, please Tweet about it or tell your friends on Facebook using the links below. I’d appreciate it.
Other Books and Resources to Help You Along the Way:
Vibram Five Finger barefoot running shoes
Pictures from my Ultra Marathon: Are We Born to Run?
Steve L
Posted at 11:49h, 27 JulyScott,
Awesome post! I agree wholeheartedly.
Thanks for the story about the ultra marathon. I’m very inspired.
I’m also SURPRISED, because I just got an email from elancer with your picture on it. Its like, everywhere I go there you are. Speed Reading, check. Zen Habits, check. Elance, check. You know what? You’re like VISA…
…you’re everywhere I want to be.
Scott
Posted at 11:08h, 29 JulyGlad you’re keeping an eye out Steve! It’s been a blast doing some writing for these other sites. Keeps me sharp and is a great way to meet others who are into the same great stuff. I’ll keep trying to follow you around the web. You seem to frequent some good spots.
The Ultra was a blast for sure. My feet are finally back to normal…
Thanks for stoping by!
Scott
Brenda Freeman
Posted at 14:57h, 29 JulyWhat an amazing feat. So inspirational. While not being a runner, I am a swimmer, and love to push myself to my boundaries.
Nothing beats pushing yourself that little bit more, and achieving what you set out to do – maybe a better time, a longer distance.
I definitely related to your comment about when you are told things shouldn’t or couldn’t be done – that is also a great motivator for me. Some say a stubborn streak – I say determined and focused 🙂
Elaine
Posted at 19:29h, 29 JulyI love your post and your thoughts and your experiences. They are all the things i admire and unfortunately lack. I am a college student now,and there are many things in the world i still haven’t got the chance to explore. when i was introduced to your web, and found out what are in it…what a gorgeous! I am so glad that I found this to expand my mind and improve my english as well…thank you,i will fpllow you up to learn more~
Scott
Posted at 17:36h, 01 August@ Brenda: Couldn’t agree more. Thanks for your thoughts. This stuff can apply to absolutely anything and everything you attempt. That’s what’s so awesome. Have fun with your swimming. What’s you’re next push? I recently did an Escape from Alcatraz swim in SF, which was pretty invigorating and definitely pushing it for me.
@ Elaine: Your comments are amazing to hear. The fact that you are reading sites like this while in college already says plenty about where you’re headed. I wish I had gotten that head start. Knowing that everything and anything is possible, or should at least be tested, before you even embark into the real world, is such an amazing advantage. Embrace it!
Here’s to expanding what’s possible,
Scott
Brenda Freeman
Posted at 02:38h, 02 AugustThanks Scott. Your Escape from Alcatraz swim would be a real push. Congratulations on your achievement
Joe Wilner
Posted at 05:14h, 10 AugustI always remember when professional athletes win the championship and express how nothing is impossible. They have achieved a pinnacle of success in their eyes and know that lofty goals can be reached. I agree that there is only growth to be gained from striving high. We must learn to reframe the concept in our own life. Thanks!
Scott
Posted at 22:45h, 10 August@ Joe: The reframing is huge indeed Joe. And it does not have to be some world record either. Just something that is a major feat for you. It’s an amazing feeling when your realm of what’s possible starts to grow. All it takes is tiny bits at a time.
Happy striving,
Scott
Christie
Posted at 23:11h, 15 AugustScott,
Excellent post!! Exactly what I have been coaching a lot of my clients through!
I resigned from my advertising position approximately a year ago to jump head first into starting my life coaching practice. A lot of people thought I was down right crazy to do so in the middle of a recession. It’s turned out to be the best decision of my life to date! While I’ve received wonderful feedback from my clients, they too have continued to inspire me to keep finding that next “impossible” feat!
Thanks for reminding people that it’s not whether you tried and failed, it’s about pushing ourselves outside of our normal boundaries and realizing we’re so much more than who we think we are today. Failing at something is not the worst thing that can happen to us. It’s simply feedback on how to do things differently and finding a new approach to achieve our goals! Never give up – life truly is full of possibilities!! ~ Cheers!! 🙂
John
Posted at 10:13h, 18 AugustHey everyone,
Thank you for what you do and who you are. I just wanted to ask you what you think is the best book for me to read to get a good overview and a great start on accomplishing the impossible. There’s so much information out there… but I don’t have time to read a library. What would you say is “THE BOOK” on doing huge things? (other than God’s awesome Word)
Thanks!
Scott
Posted at 11:09h, 18 August@ Christie: Congrats on you major transition! Sounds like you are outside your comfort zone indeed. That’s the place to be. I bet it’s been an amazing experience especially to help people when they really need it. There really is no downside to trying what you or others thinks is impossible. Enjoy your new path!
Scott
Scott
Posted at 11:11h, 18 August@ John: Thanks for stopping by. I think two great books to really change up your thinking are:
The 4-Hour Work Week: https://liveyourlegend.net/escape-9-5-live-anywhere-outsource-your-life-and-join-the-new-rich-updated-4-hour-work-week
and
Unlimited Power: https://liveyourlegend.net/what-should-i-read/unlimited-power
There are of course all kinds but this will give you a start.
Happy reading!
Scott
Donald
Posted at 22:15h, 28 AugustScott – Congrats on finishing your first ultra! I wanted to encourage you with the minimalist running; coincidentally, I was at TRT as well, pacing a 100-mile runner during the last half of the race. I wore ViovoBarefoot Evos, which are similar to Vibrams but without the toe separation. I’ve done ultras up to 100K in Vibrams, Evos, or Soft Star moccasins, and I know a couple of folks who’ve done 100-milers in minimal shoes, so that is firmly on the “possible” list.
I just recently found your blog, and I’m really benefiting from all you have to say. If you’re ever in Monterey County, I’d love to take you on a trail run. Keep up the great work.
Scott
Posted at 14:14h, 13 SeptemberSmall world that you were out on the trails with my Donald. Sounds like you had a bit more of a run on your hands than I did! Nicely done. I can’t imagine doing much more than 32 miles on Vibrams but something tells me I will one of these days.
I’m glad you stumbled on my blog and that it’s been helpful. That’s the only reason I continue to pursue it. It’s been a blast. Coincidentally my folks have a little place near Carmel so I get down there from time to time from San Francisco. There are some great trails off the 1. I can only imagine what you have in mind. I look forward to exploring one with you one of these days.
To the adventure,
Scott
Donald
Posted at 05:04h, 14 SeptemberNah, no worries … it won’t be anything too hardcore – the worst part would be the early start time :). Drop me an e-mail if you’re interested!
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