It’s a simple concept: Water is hot at 211 degrees – One degree more and it boils. That extra degree makes a world of difference, changing the water’s composition and generating steam. We see the same in life and leadership. That one extra degree of effort, commitment, stick-to-itiveness, or confidence can make a huge difference in finally reaching a goal, achieving success, or solving the problem.
They say it took Thomas Edison over 10,000 tries to finally invent the light bulb. He was quick to say that he had not failed, but merely found over 10,000 ways that did not work. One of his most famous quotes says it best – “Many of life’s failures are men who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”
In practicing the principles of Thoughtful Leadership, I coach clients to see their ideas through to fruition and stretch themselves a bit further when they reach obstacles that seem insurmountable. Quite often, it’s that last surge of effort, creativity, and purposeful thought that propels them toward a goal or solution.
Watch this video – 212°: The Extra Degree for further inspiration.
Where are you feeling ready to give up? Is it a perplexing challenge? Is it a difficult relationship? Is it a dream that seems unreachable? What might be possible if you give it that one extra degree of effort?
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