In the journey of life, goals and dreams often appear as towering mountains, their peaks shrouded in the mist of uncertainty and doubt. The path to achieving these aspirations is fraught with obstacles that seem insurmountable, leading many to believe that their ambitions are beyond reach. Yet, history and personal experiences alike are replete with stories of individuals who have turned the impossible into the possible. This transformation is encapsulated in the powerful words of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

The Struggle Between Doubt and Action

The essence of Mandela’s statement lies in the universal struggle between doubt and action. Before embarking on any significant endeavour, the challenge at hand can seem overwhelming. Doubt creeps in, whispering tales of potential failure and disappointment. However, the moment we shift from thought to action, the perspective begins to change. What was once deemed impossible starts to unravel, revealing a path forward, one step at a time.

This concept is not just philosophical rhetoric but is grounded in the psychological principle of action over hesitation. When we take the first step towards our goal, we engage in a process of learning and adaptation. Each action provides feedback, and with feedback comes the opportunity to adjust and refine our approach. Progress, therefore, is not just about the big leaps but the accumulation of small, consistent steps taken in the direction of our dreams.

As psychologist Carol Dweck explores in her book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, adopting a growth mindset—where challenges are viewed as opportunities to learn — can significantly impact our ability to achieve what initially seems impossible. Dweck argues that individuals who believe their abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance are more likely to overcome obstacles and achieve success (Dweck, 2007).

Drawing Strength from Others’ Journeys

Moreover, the journey from ‘impossible’ to ‘done’ is not a solitary one. It is paved with the support and inspiration we draw from others who have navigated their own impossible journeys. These stories of perseverance and triumph serve as beacons of hope, reminding us that the limits of possibility are often far beyond where we initially perceive them to be.

One powerful example of this is found in the realm of scientific discovery. Marie Curie, who faced immense gender discrimination, persisted in her research and became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Curie, 1937). Her journey underscores the importance of resilience and the support of a community that believes in one’s vision, even when it seems impossible.

The importance of community and shared experience is also highlighted by John Donne in his famous line, “No man is an island” (Devotions upon Emergent Occasions, 1624). Donne’s work reminds us that human achievements are often the result of collective effort, and the support of others is crucial in turning the impossible into the possible.

The Mindset Shift: From Impossible to Possible

In practical terms, transforming the impossible into the done requires a mindset shift. It requires viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable barriers. It calls for resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and an unwavering belief in one’s capacity to overcome. Most importantly, it demands action. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and it is only through taking that step that we can ever hope to see the impossible become possible.

Psychologist Angela Duckworth, in her book Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, emphasizes that success is often more about stamina than talent. Duckworth’s research shows that the most successful individuals are those who maintain their efforts over the long term, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles (Duckworth, 2016). This aligns perfectly with Mandela’s assertion, reinforcing the idea that perseverance is key to overcoming the impossible.

The journey from impossibility to achievement is marked by the interplay of doubt, action, and resilience. Nelson Mandela’s words serve as a powerful reminder that the barriers we perceive are often self-imposed. By taking the first step, drawing strength from others, and maintaining a growth mindset, we can transform the impossible into the possible, one step at a time.

References

Curie, E. (1937) Madame Curie: A Biography by Eve Curie. New York: Doubleday.

Dweck, C. (2007) Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. New York: Ballantine Books.

Duckworth, A. (2016) Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. New York: Scribner.

Donne, J. (1624) Devotions upon Emergent Occasions. London: Thomas Jones.