This shot was taken in a very lonely road going outside of Sapa in north Vietnam. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
“Chances are you won’t make it.” – I consider that phrase the worst and best motivator.
Why? Because it can motivate you to fight against the odds, inspire you to prove them wrong, and fuel your heart; but on the other hand, it can take all that away from you, demoralize you and send you to the bottom of the barrel. It is true that many times, it depends on where it comes from – on who said it; however, the attitude you choose is up to you. Either fight back and hold on to your dream or sink to the bottom.
Ah, but is not that easy. When you hear that phrase after many trials and failures it becomes heavier, and your beat up vulnerable heart and spirit has weakened to a point where you think that you have no strength to prove them wrong, to fight against the odds or to keep holding on. It is very different if that was said to you when you started your journey, isn’t it? All fresh, with tons of energy, exuberant and smelling of soon to be success, drunk on the juices of the big dream cocktail and ready to fight against the odds, prove them wrong, and hold on with your teeth if necessary. What happened?
The journey happened. It is all part of the journey, the trials, the failures, the tiredness, the broken heart, the broken dreams, the broken spirit … Until you understand that all is part of the journey, you won’t be able to keep going. It is the path that takes you there, but only you can follow it.
Inkspeare 
I recall a story about famous baseball player Mickey Mantle. His father came to visit him when he played in the minor leagues. He told his dad he didn’t think he could be a professional ball player. His dad said you’re probably right and began packing Mickey cloths for him. Before it was all over Mickey was unpacking and his dad was packing at the same time. Mickey had to convince his dad he was going to stay and give it another try.
A brilliant post. This is a situation I was struggling with the last few years.The last lines were truly inspiring.
Oh, I didn’t know about that story. Imagine if he would have packed that suitcase. Profound.
Hi, I am glad that this post inspired you. Blessings and much success to you.
Thank you very much. Same to you. x