We are actually playing with two dynamics here. One involves the relationship between these two words in terms of pursuing the “next step” in your journey. Where do they meet? Do they meet? Beyond that, one can make the simple statement, what choice do I have (which will absolutely be influenced by your capabilities), and without seeing both the positive “and” negative slant to that question might be at a loss with how to proceed in today’s seriously changing work environment.
The value in contemplating both of these scenarios is no less than an exercise in developing personal clarity with one’s intentions. And as they say, and I’m in full agreement, clarity is priceless.
The Problem
Over the course of time, you’ve built up a set of skills in a particular area. You knew this was a necessary step in terms of creating a good work ethic and building a foundation for yourself, and you did the homework. As they say, on paper, you look great.
But for whatever reason, you have a tough time seeing yourself as a successful individual which is seriously disconcerting as you’ve been steadfast at staying on track with your mission. You’re an extremely “capable” person, and yet, something is missing in this equation regardless of how much you hear how well you’re doing, and it’s affecting your focus, your productivity, and your emotional stability. You took what seemed to be the right steps and yet here you are feeling relatively off center.
The Solution
Step back, find a quiet moment, and give yourself the time to consider all three of these perspectives.
One) When you consider the capability vs. choice query, the most important decision is not whether you’re capable of continuing or pursuing your latest endeavor – it’s whether you “choose” to continue the pursuit that deserves the most immediate attention. The line between what you’re capable of and what you could be doing blurs more often than not. The word courage comes up here, and in my eyes that’s about shinning brightly, not blending in.
Two) Famed author Seth Godin made an enlightening statement in this area. He reminds us that just because you’re excellent at your job doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right job, which might be at the heart of your lack of focus and commitment. For some, it might be the “Golden Handcuffs” scenario. Once again, you look great on paper, and all you’re able to see is your life more or less slipping right by you. Back up and take a serious look at that, and have the tenacity to take action if necessary.
Three) Many times you’ll find there is just no right answer to your predicament…a seriously frustrating reality. For most, this would be the “just stay positive” stage. In lieu of positive thinking, here’s a great suggestion from writer J Michael Dolan. Rather than centering on positive thinking, shift gears and start centering on “intelligent forecasting.” That simple play on words sounds like a pretty hip way to look at the capabilities/choice conundrum – a much more action-based approach.
Some Thoughts
Positive forward momentum is usually realized through a greater understanding of what’s relevant, what’s meaningful, and what’s exciting, in no particular order.
Sometimes you have to keep double-checking yourself on the choices you’ve made even though they felt damn good when you made them. Akin to this point, I’m reminded of what I heard about a few of the top tech schools. It’s not uncommon that what you will have learned in the first couple of years might already be antiquated after that time period – an alternative viewpoint if you will on the complexity of capabilities and choice.
Things are moving fast, and part of your job is keeping up with them. This is a worthy goal, but what I’d recommend is to try to get “ahead” of them – a different mindset entirely.
