Here’s a compelling story that highlights the power of belief and perseverance. George Danzig, a mathematics graduate student, faced a challenge during a time when securing a job was extremely competitive in the U.S.
His math professor, who led the mathematics department, announced that the student who earned the highest grade on the final exam would have the chance to work as his research assistant for the upcoming year. This position was highly coveted, and George was determined to secure it. He studied tirelessly for the test, staying up late into the night and even arriving late on the day of the exam.
Despite his late arrival, George managed to take the test. He breezed through the eight math questions with relative ease. However, there were two additional problems written on the blackboard that stumped him completely. He struggled with these two problems, convinced that someone in the room would solve them while he remained baffled.
As the exam time came to a close, some students requested extra time to work on the problems. The professor allowed them to take the test home and return it by Friday. George also asked for additional time and took the test home.
Determined, George worked through the night on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, dedicating himself fully to solving the problems. By Thursday morning, he had solved one problem and continued to work diligently into Thursday night. By Friday morning, he had solved both challenging questions.
He submitted his test by the 11 a.m. deadline and waited anxiously for the outcome. Early Sunday morning, there was a knock at his door—it was his professor.
“George, you’ve made mathematical history!” the professor exclaimed. “I was thinking on my way here that you were late to the test, right?”
George replied, “Yes, did I make a mistake?”
The professor explained, “No, it’s just that the eight questions were the actual exam. I had mentioned to everyone that I had enjoyed teaching them. The two problems on the board were actually unsolved math questions that even Einstein couldn’t solve. How did you manage to solve them?”
George reflected that had he known these problems were unsolved by the greatest minds, his approach would have been different, and he might not have tapped into his own potential to solve them.
This story illustrates a profound truth: the same potential to overcome what seems impossible exists within each of us. Regardless of what you are currently facing, remember that you are connected to a boundless source of potential. You have the capability to achieve your goals, contribute meaningfully, and create a life you truly cherish.
Always remain open to the possibility of solutions, no matter how daunting the challenge may seem.
- Unlocking Your Genius
A recent ten-year Harvard study known as the Zero Point study explored the concept of genius and its evolution over time. This study examined how certain individuals bring forth groundbreaking ideas, transformational thinking, and innovations that elevate human experience.
So, what defines this genius capacity?
The researchers found that genius is linked to the variety of ways one absorbs, processes, and utilizes information. Our ability to perceive and understand the world comes through various modalities—such as auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and intuitive channels.
Here’s what the study revealed:
During infancy, nearly 99% of babies exhibit genius-level capacity.
By age five, only 22% of us retain that level of capacity.
By age twenty, a mere 2% continue to function at this genius level.
What causes this decline?
The research indicates that our capacity for genius diminishes as we grow due to the internalized judgments and self-doubt that develop over time. We start to question ourselves, seek validation from others, and lose confidence in our own capabilities.
Despite this, the genius potential remains within each of us. It’s crucial to reconnect with your innate brilliance. Trust in your unique abilities and believe in the power of your dreams.
