You can't be anything you set your mind to, and the world would be a better place if people would stop saying that (and so would your life).
Like all things, there's ideal, then there's practical.
We all want the dream life (whatever that means to you) but in reality we end up with something about 1/3rd as a good.
Often goals we set for ourselves are unachievable. And too ambitious of goals cause a lot of harm.
We can invest too much time and resources into something that 1) isn't worth it if you can't already afford it and 2) disadvantages your life in the process of trying.
Ever know a 'car guy' in high school? He bought a $4,000 project car at 17 and then spent every paycheck on parts for that and then spent all his free time wrenching and in the end the engine blew and he couldn't afford to fix it? Or he's now 20 and the thing rattles and is falling apart due to high miles?
This is what happens when we overreach and try an unsustainable practice of reaching for an unrealistic goal. In the beginning it's okay. Or even good, but long term it wrecks havoc. You're unable to save money. You miss social experiences. You become obsessed. And ultimately, you wear out and break down. You burn out. All that time is lost.
All the while, an alternative more pragmatic path was available. I'm saying we should choose pragmatism over idealism. If it's a reach for you, don't do it. Set realistic and achievable goals that move you only as far as you can handle.
So no, you can't necessarily do whatever you set your mind to. That's okay. It will prevent you from overextending and winding up in a bind.
And yet it sucks to compromise doesn't it?! I hate that feeling. But what's better, ultimately? Being stubborn and refusing to compromise or choosing to set yourself up for long term success and payoff? 🤷🏻
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