Tuesday, February 16, 2010
The Element & Opportunity
Robinson defines the element as "the place where the things we love to do and the things we are good at come together" (p. xiii). How much more productive and efficient would our workforce be if more of the population operated within their "element"? Yet, it seems so unlikely, almost impossible, that people can discover their "element" in spite of the many obstacles and factors that confine us to our current situations--location, finances, family obligations, lack of opportunity, etc. Does everyone have the potential to excel at something to the extent of the individuals Robinson uses as examples in his book? Robinson will most likely reveal to us that those in their "element" have overcome challenges to devote themselves entirely to the passion that drives them. "They pursued them because they couldn't imagine doing anything else with their lives" (p. 20). He gives the example of the keyboard player who had practiced 3-4 hours every day from the age of 7 in addition to performing. Those in their "element" find the opportunity to do what they love, or create an opportunity where one doesn't exist.
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I agree with you! And i've also been pondering the idea that there is nothing that I can think of that has given me that kind of fuel. It makes me sad to think that either A: I missed my Element, B: I haven't found my Element, or C: I don't have an Element!
ReplyDeleteDefinetely not C, Laura. You certainly have an element. I think it is sometimes difficult for people in our situation to realize it as we are always fighting to secure employment. I am confident it will come, for both of us!
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