Griffin Hill | Achieve More

What is My Potential?

Written by Cameron Baird | March 01, 2016

The idea of human potential is incredibly captivating. Just think about it: What are we truly capable of? How much can we accomplish, and what impact can we make on our lives, workplaces, and the world around us? These are the questions that get those of us in human performance science excited.

 

As a self-proclaimed 'human performance nerd,' I'm lucky to work with seriously brilliant minds. We have access to more knowledge and research than ever before, building upon insights gathered over generations. Exploring the possibilities of reaching your potential has never been more fascinating!

 

The Universal Desire for Growth

While nerds love diving into science,  we're all driven by a deep curiosity about what makes people tick. At the core, everyone wants to do better and achieve more. We constantly want to push our limits and see what we can, whether due to our competitive nature or just a deep-seated drive for improvement.

Certain fundamental principles stand out for anyone looking to improve, reach further, and strive for greatness. Let's break these down:

  1. Exploring the Depths of Human Potential

    The concept of human potential is a captivating subject that beckons us to contemplate our capabilities and the impact we can have on our lives and the world. As someone deeply immersed in human performance science, I'm fortunate to collaborate with brilliant minds and access a wealth of knowledge and research. This exploration into our potential has never been more intriguing, with insights building upon generations of understanding.

  2. Navigating the Complexities of Personal Growth

    Embarking on the path to realizing our potential requires a multifaceted approach. It's not just about setting ambitious goals but also understanding the nuances of growth and development. Factors like self-awareness, continuous learning, resilience, goal setting, and support systems play vital roles in this journey.

  3. Harnessing the Power of Intention and Action

    Realizing our potential involves more than mere aspirations; it necessitates translating those aspirations into actionable steps. Clarity of purpose, strategic planning, consistency, embracing challenges, and celebrating milestones are essential elements in harnessing the transformative power of intention and action.

  4. The Transformative Power of Personal Development

    We are embracing personal development as a means to realize our potential, which leads to transformative growth across various dimensions of our lives. Through self-discovery, emotional intelligence, purposeful living, lifelong learning, and making a positive impact, we evolve into the best versions of ourselves, leaving a lasting legacy.

  5. Embracing the Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

    In essence, realizing our potential is an ongoing journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. It's about embracing the process, learning from experiences, and evolving into the best version of ourselves. The exploration of human potential is not just intellectually stimulating but also profoundly impactful on our personal and professional endeavors.

 

From Random Growth to Intentional Achievement


Figuring out how to tap into our potential is a massive puzzle, and those three principles can feel hard to balance. Sometimes, we settle for bouncing through life, hoping for the best, and taking the lessons (occasionally harsh ones!) as they come. But what if we could move from random growth to intentional, focused achievement?

Introducing the 'World Class' Principle

Dr. Thomas Gilbert is one of the brightest minds I know in human performance. He unlocked a powerful secret to tapping into potential, which can be summed up in two words: World Class. Here's how it works:

  1. Define Your World: Look at performers with similar experience, skill, and location. Refrain from comparing yourself to Olympians when you're just starting! It's about setting realistic goals within your current playing field. It could be newcomers at your company or others in your local running group.
  2. Identify Best-in-Class: What are the top results within your defined "world"? A beginner salesperson might look at their team's best numbers this year, while an experienced one might set their sights on regional leaders. Identifying this benchmark becomes your target – your immediately achievable potential.
  3. Expand and Repeat: As you get closer to that 'World Class' mark, you expand your world. This means looking at a slightly broader competition pool and creating new, progressively challenging goals. In this way, you establish a powerful cycle of continuous improvement!

 

Why 'World Class' Works

This simple approach is brilliant because it:

  • Encourages Reaching: It gives you something specific and achievable to strive for.
  • Prevents Discouragement: Goals are always within reach, reducing the risk of burnout.
  • Fosters Steady Progress: Success breeds confidence, making you hungry for further growth.

We have a tool for transforming potential into real-world results, thanks to Dr. Gilbert. It's the best of performance science distilled to its most practical form.

 

Extra Insights for Unlocking Your Potential

Let's explore a few more thoughts to help you maximize your growth journey:

  • The Power of Mentorship: Finding someone who's a bit further along the path, who's expanded their 'world' a few times already, can be invaluable for guidance and support.
  • Celebrate Every Win: Every time you reach a new 'World Class' target, no matter how small, take a moment to acknowledge the progress!
  • Focus on Your 'Why': What motivates you to improve? Keep your larger goals and motivations in sight during challenging times.

 

Practical Strategies for Applying 'World Class'

Let's make this concept actionable. Here are some ways to apply 'World Class' in different aspects of your life:

  • Career Development: Instead of vaguely wanting a promotion, define your 'world' (your department, similar-sized companies in your industry) and find the benchmarks for your desired position. Then, work to surpass those numbers or achievements.
  • Fitness Goals: If you're new to running, your 'world' is other beginners in your area. Aim to beat their average 5k times. As you improve, expand to include more experienced runners.
  • Skill Development: Learning a new language? Identify someone with your experience level who's slightly ahead in fluency or vocabulary. This becomes your achievable target.

 

The Role of Mindset in Reaching Your Potential

Along with 'World Class' strategies, mindset plays a huge role in achieving your potential. Consider these aspects:

  • Embrace the Learning Process: Mistakes and setbacks are inevitable. Reframe them as valuable information instead of reasons to quit.
  • Cultivate Self-Belief: Focus on your strengths, celebrate progress, and visualize achieving your goals. Small acts of self-affirmation go a long way!
  • Surround Yourself with the Right People: Connect with those who are also driven to improve and believe in your potential. Support systems are crucial.

 

Beyond Technique: The Importance of Persistence

Even with the best strategies and mindset, growth takes time. Talent gets you partway, but persistence carries you across the finish line.

  • Break Big Goals into Bite-Sized Steps: Focus on daily actions. This keeps you motivated and moving forward.
  • Consistency is Key: Even a little progress daily adds to massive change over time. Remember to consider small, steady efforts.
  • Embrace the 'Dip': Everyone experiences moments of self-doubt or plateaus. Recognize them as standard parts of the journey and push through them!

The question of human potential will fascinate us further. But while science is intriguing, the application of ideas like 'World Class' makes a difference in our lives. By setting realistic, progressive goals, nurturing a growth-oriented mindset, and embracing persistence, your potential can unfold before you in incredible ways.

 

Ready to Unlock Your Full Potential? Schedule a Consultation Today!

Are you eager to transform your aspirations into tangible achievements? Our team at Griffin Hill is here to help you on your journey of personal and professional growth. Whether you're looking to enhance your career, improve your fitness goals, or develop new skills, our experts can provide tailored guidance and support.

Achieve strategic success with Loren of Griffin Hill. Reserve your no-cost consultation now and take the first step towards your goals.