Everyone Wants to Go to Heaven, No One Wants to Die

This statement sheds light on deeply a human condition, namely, the coexistence of our desire to achieve personal 'heaven' with our reluctance to face inevitable 'deaths' — the sacrifices — needed to achieve it.

The Paradox of Aspiration and Adversity

We all chase a form of 'heaven' – be it success, happiness, fulfillment, or peace. But, the path to these aspirations involves overcoming daunting challenges.

Why, then, do we hesitate to embrace these struggles, especially when they are crucial for achieving greatness?

Nelson Mandela's Resilient Journey

Consider Nelson Mandela's journey. His 'heaven' was a free and equal South Africa, a dream he nurtured through 27 years of imprisonment. In his tiny cell, Mandela faced not just physical hardship but a mental and emotional battle. He used this time for growth, studying law and secretly writing his autobiography. This strength of character transformed both him and his country.

In 1990, Mandela emerged from prison, not embittered, but with a vision of peace and reconciliation. His election as South Africa's first black president in 1994 marked not just the end of apartheid but the beginning of a new era, a testament to his incredible sacrifice and resilience.

Mandela's journey demonstrates that the path to 'heaven' often requires confronting 'death'—our deepest fears and greatest challenges. His courage in facing these obstacles transformed not only his destiny but also that of an entire nation.

Personal 'Heaven' and 'Death'

What is your 'heaven', and what 'death' are you perhaps avoiding?

It could be a professional goal, a personal dream, or an emotional state that you want to achieve. Articulate these ambitions and outline the specific challenges you need to overcome to be able to achieve them. Then engage in ‘death by deliberate practice’. Face challenges head on and watch yourself slowly move toward achieving your ‘heaven’

Deliberate Practice: Joe DiMaggio’s Story

Joe DiMaggio was one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. A three-time winner of the Most Valuable Player award, DiMaggio was selected to the Major League All-Star team in each of his thirteen seasons.

I read this fascinating story about how DiMaggio acquired his exceptional ability.

As the story goes, a journalist was interviewing DiMaggio at his home and asked him what it felt like to be such a “natural hitter.” Without saying a word, he dragged the reporter downstairs. In the shadows of the basement, DiMaggio picked up a bat and began to repeat a series of practice swings. Before each swing, he would call out a particular pitch such as “fastball, low and away” or “slider, inside” and adjust his approach accordingly.

Once he finished the routine, DiMaggio set the bat down, picked up a piece of chalk, and scratched a tally mark on the wall. Then he flicked on the lights to reveal thousands of tally marks covering the basement walls.

DiMaggio then looked at the journalist and said, “Don’t you ever tell me that I’m a natural hitter again.”

Realize Your 'Heaven' Through Practice and Perseverance

The stories of Mandela and DiMaggio aren't just tales of success; they're reminders of the resilience and dedication needed to achieve greatness.

So reflect on your own 'heaven'. What is it?

What challenges stand in your way?

Embrace the obstacles and commit to 'deliberate practice'. This means not just hard work, but focused and purposeful effort, tailored to your goals.

Success may be influenced by what we're born with or the opportunities we're given but it is not determined by those.

Success is the outcome of how we use our talents, how we face our fears, and how persistently we work towards our goals (and luck). DiMaggio didn't rely solely on his natural talent; he built on it with unrelenting practice.

As you work towards your own 'heaven', remember the importance of both natural ability and deliberate, purposeful effort. Combine those with the courage to face challenges head-on, and you are well on your way towards your ‘heaven’.

So, what steps will you take today toward your 'heaven'?

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