Activating Your X-Factor: Achieving Beyond Your Natural Abilities

We regularly hear about extraordinary advancements in science, medicine, and business; but do we expect extraordinary advancements in our own lives? When asked what they envision for their future, people usually tell me about the next incremental promotion they want. Even when pressed they fail to mention extraordinary possibilities.??

Lacking a compelling personal vision and plan we surrender our future to the plans of others. While we can’t control all the variables of our future, extraordinary advancements result from acting on the variables we can control.???

There are two parts to extraordinary advancements in our careers: being thoroughly prepared; and the right timing.???

• Preparation is 100% within our control. It is unceasingly chasing the vision of what we want to become. It is studying, reading, practicing, volunteering for stretch assignments; and working at the level we seek so that when the timing is right the opportunity is undeniably ours.???
• Timing is not within our control, but you can identify when the timing is just right. This is where wisdom, judgement and patience are needed to navigate toward favorable outcomes.???

Going deeper, preparation has three parts of its own:???

• First, stop thinking incrementally. Most of us limit ourselves to the normal course of things. Just because tradition dictates a gradual stepwise progression doesn’t mean that you should stay locked into that pace. Having a mindset of extraordinary achievement means thinking boldly beyond historical limits. It is time to look up and beyond the immediate.?
• Second, prepare a plan and act. It’s time to think beyond average and optimize your fullest potential. You must plan and act differently to reach extraordinary outcomes. Assess your current skillsets and identify what education and skills you must obtain to achieve your dream result.???
• Third, people achieve in proportion to the size of the “why” that drives them. The “why” must have a significant meaning, one that will help you reach a favorable outcome and meet your goals. What is driving you? What will you do to achieve your dreams????

Success is up to you. A lofty goal, diligent preparation, and a grounded “why” will empower you to achieve beyond your natural abilities.???