The courage to live in the 1%

Almost 15 years ago, I had an idea for a book about the musical life of babies. I was convinced that we are all born with a musical genius in us, a ‘musigenius’ as I called it, and I wanted to show the world how to connect with that. I got the advice of a coach, before coaching was even popular, and booked a meeting with a literary agent. I paid for one hour meeting, the equivalent of a week’s salary, from my part time job at the time. We met at a fancy caffe and after talking about my book for no longer than 2 minutes, she spent the rest of the appointment explaining the impossibility of such an idea ever being published. She told me how only 1% of the submitted manuscripts are published in the end. There was no instagram or other social media platforms at the time, but what she insinuated was that it is all about who you know and not so much about what you have to say! I left the meeting feeling somehow cheated from the poor service and advice, but never thought about a book, or a literary agent or even a coach for a very long time after that.

Last October that book was published. In a different language, from a Greek publication, with the assistance of a co-author that kept me accountable and the support of many people close to me. I cannot say that this is the same book I pitched initially to that literary agent, but nevertheless I am now in the 1%.

The idea of probability, of being a statistical impossibility is a theme that has appeared throughout my life. From being the first child in my? village that ever started playing a musical instrument, thanks to my mother’s desire to find a girly hobby for her tomboy daughter, to excelling in everything academic. When I look back, what changed my life in a big way, were the decisions I made when trying for things that seemed impossible. And more times than not, I have achieved the impossible. Not because that was my plan, but rather because I let myself being guided by what felt like a divine inspiration.

In my personal life the 1% appeared also, in a devastating way. Having to overcome medical impossibilities, fighting against the odds, when there was seemingly very little hope. Professionally as well, I think I hold the record for most failed job interviews. I have failed in 99% of the jobs i have ever applied or being interviewed for, apart from one, but this is another story. Whatever success I have ever had, was because someone chose me and offered me a chance, exactly because I had qualities that were a bit rare. Many times, I wished things were easier, that I was more like many other people, that in my mind were the majority and therefore secure and happy. I realise now, how this was a very skewed idea of the world.

I was also not sincere with myself, since my soul has always being yearning for what feels impossible. I have been looking for the 1% all my life.

But I am not the only one that feels that way.

I believe this is a human desire.

The 1%.

The place were we connect with our true self, were we truly put ourselves in service of our destiny.

Yearning for the 1% is like asking for the impossible.

But there is humility in that!

It takes moral courage, to do the right thing, even when what you do is uncomfortable or unpopular.

It takes emotional courage to feel your emotions fully, your fear, your frustration, your joy and act upon them.

It takes intellectual courage to learn, relearn, unlearn and keep your mind open. Because our 1% is a feeling rather than a certain plan.

It takes spiritual courage to live true to your purpose, just for yourself, without trying to convince anyone, but with the deep conviction that going after the impossible, will benefit others too.

We are all alone and yet together in our 1%.

So if your soul feels that you need to try for the impossible, listen to that.

Chances are it is your future self calling you.

Chances are the impossible is already yours!

So have the courage to live in your 1%

Much love

Maria