What limits our achievements?

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I had an opportunity to hear Ferran Soriano (CEO of Manchester City FC) talking about techniques for managing soccer team, and the relevant implications to the general business world. During the talk he quoted(*):

We can do anything - but we can't do everything.

The above suggests that you won't be able to do everything at the same time - which makes a lot of sense.

Even when you have everything required - the skills, the time, the resources - all the basics, you'll need to make priorities, and focus - and realize that many times achieving one goal will come at the expense of another. No free meals. No shortcuts.

So we can't do everything.

At the same time, this quote claims we can do anything...

But can we do anything? So many self-help and coaching sources try to "sell us" on the idea that we can achieve anything to which we set our minds, if only we'll work hard enough.

As my words hint, and at the risk of shocking the reader, I'd like to say I don't believe that.

You can't achieve anything "to which you set your mind".

Achieving goals is dependent not only on our hopes and wishes. You can't magically "summon" success and achievements.

Having said that, I do believe there is a level of control we do have on achieving our goals - or on failing to achieve them.

(* In another post, I write about the one trait all successful people have in common. This is the other side of the coin. *)

Think of this quote:

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can't — you're right.”

(attributed to) Henry Ford (1863-1947)

It correctly implies that one of the most limiting factors on your abilities - are your beliefs.

As my previous post suggests - you must try - and try again - and again - and again... and not be discouraged by failure.

But - before doing so - you must believe in yourself. You must believe you can. And think you can. And act accordingly.

Believing in your ability to achieve is a pre-requisite to achieving.

Because if you think you can't - if don't actively wholeheartedly think you can - then you're probably right...

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(*) The origin of this quote is probably/possibly attributed to David Allen (1945-) (Wikipedia, official site)