It's All Possible Summary

"What would you attempt if you knew you couldn't fail?" This book proves that with the right approach, failure is just another step toward possibility.

1. Believe in Possibility Over Limitation

Believing in possibility unlocks untapped potential. Many of us live constrained by limitations we unconsciously impose on ourselves, such as thinking certain goals are unreachable. This doubt stems from our deeply rooted habits, beliefs, opinions, and experiences, or HBOEs, which shape how we see the world. By challenging these patterns, we can reframe our perspectives and start pursuing meaningful change.

Take Roger Bannister, who defied the belief that running a four-minute mile was impossible, or Jessica Cox, born without arms, who went on to earn a black belt in taekwondo. Their success came from refusing to accept limits, channeling their belief into action, and setting an example to reconsider what's achievable.

To rewrite your internal narrative:

• Identify limiting beliefs by reflecting on ingrained thoughts and behaviors.
• Counter recurring doubts with positive visualizations, like imagining landing your dream job or solving financial challenges.
• Approach the world with curiosity and an open mind to redefine what’s possible.

Examples

• Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile barrier after rigorous training and belief.
• Doug Flutie overcame his short stature to excel as an NFL quarterback.
• Jessica Cox visualized an action-oriented life despite being born without arms.

2. Adopt a Positive Mindset

A positive attitude transforms not just how we see the world but also how we experience it. When faced with challenges, optimism allows us to see opportunities rather than obstacles, influencing our decisions and actions. For instance, losing a job can either define you as a failure or motivate you toward a life-changing journey by embracing new passions.

Russian psychologist K. Kekcheyev's research shows the link between mindset and sensory perception: positivity makes food taste better and colors more vibrant. Essentially, your thoughts can shape your reality.

To nurture positivity:

• Reframe challenges as opportunities. Swap “I have to go to the gym” for “I get to improve my health.”
• Embrace a growth mindset that views struggles as temporary hurdles instead of fixed limitations.
• Surround yourself with supportive, optimistic friends who reinforce a can-do mentality.

Examples

• Fired yet positive, the second colleague from the story used his setback to publish a best-selling novel.
• Growth mindset shifts personal narratives from "I’m just lazy" to "I’m improving my productivity."
• Positive mentors and peers reinforce self-belief and guide you through difficulties.

3. Discover and Pursue Your True Passion

Finding your real passion creates alignment between your actions and your purpose. Passion energizes and focuses efforts, making even daunting tasks feel rewarding. Without it, you risk stagnation or dissatisfaction, as did Sarah Blanck before she shifted from graphic design to realize her dream of becoming an Olympic sailor.

To uncover what excites you:

• Experiment with new activities. Creative classes, volunteering, or exploring hobbies can reveal undiscovered interests.
• Reflect on moments that captivate your imagination or make time fly.
• Design a detailed vision of your dream life, including where you’ll live, what you’ll do, and how you’ll spend your days.

Examples

• Sarah Blanck left graphic design to fulfill her Olympic sailing dream.
• Journaling your “ideal day” exercise helps clarify personal goals.
• Experimenting in various fields leads to discovering genuine interests.

4. Build a Strategic Plan for Success

Dreams without a strategy remain just that—dreams. George Miller and Byron Kennedy demonstrated this in 1975 by turning their vision of Mad Max into reality through disciplined planning. By writing a solid script, recruiting talent, and executing their vision step-by-step, they created a timeless cult classic.

Create your strategy by:

• Listing the “Little Big Things” you need for your goal, like tools, resources, or milestones.
• Setting gradual performance benchmarks that allow for steady progress over time.
• Engaging collaborators who align with your vision and can offer valuable input.

Examples

• Mad Max’s creation hinged on practical planning and resource gathering.
• Starbucks’s scalable strategy built success city by city.
• Acquiring a cutting-edge racing bike and training systematically to enter cycling competitions.

5. Take Action Using the CHAMPION Process

Planning is important, but without action, even the best strategies falter. The CHAMPION process offers a systematic method to act on goals: chunk your vision into achievable steps, try to reach them, and reassess your progress.

Other steps include maintaining your mindset during setbacks, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and learning from the best in your chosen field.

Examples

• A cyclist divides training into chunks, such as improving stamina daily.
• Supportive friends spark motivation in moments of doubt.
• A reassessment after setbacks strengthens future efforts.

6. Transform Every Attempt Into Learning

Trial and error lead to success. The KFC system emphasizes the importance of knowing your desired outcome, evaluating results honestly, and changing approaches if necessary.

Failure isn’t the end, but a marker for adjustment. The key is to learn from mistakes and remain adaptable while striving toward mastery.

Examples

• A writer who pivots focus after receiving manuscript rejection.
• An entrepreneur evaluating why product launches fail.
• A student adapting new study methods after poor exam results.

7. Lifelong Learning Matters More Than Titles

While degrees and certifications may open doors, true learning doesn’t stop after school. Diverse skills—from social connections to problem-solving—build resilience and adaptability in unpredictable environments.

To grow:

• Explore interests outside your profession.
• Balance technical expertise with soft skills like empathy and communication.
• Continuously assess your habits, preferences, and personal growth for potential adjustments.

Examples

• Improv classes sharpen public speaking and spontaneity.
• Learning collaboration boosts workplace success.
• Regular self-reflection reveals opportunities for future development.

8. Keep an Open Mind About Your Potential

We evolve with time, and so should our understanding of our limits. Being open to new ideas, challenges, or goals can unlock unexpected paths that expand your confidence and abilities.

Challenge yourself through:

• Personal growth activities or hobbies you’ve never tried before.
• Seeking experiences or careers that feel slightly outside your comfort zone.
• Actively learning from those with different approaches or unique expertise.

Examples

• Transitioning careers after recognizing dissatisfaction.
• Traveling builds cultural understanding and adaptability.
• Collaborating with varied experts sparks innovation.

9. Build Resilience to Stay the Course

Pursuit of possibility is a marathon, not a sprint. Resilience allows you to recover from setbacks and sustain momentum. The combination of persistence and adaptability enables progress even when faced with unexpected roadblocks.

Resilience comes from:

• Viewing failures as stepping stones rather than dead ends.
• Practicing gratitude to maintain optimism during obstacles.
• Finding consistent sources of inspiration to fuel perseverance.

Examples

• Athletes training after injuries use resilience to make comebacks.
• Gratitude journals help maintain motivation during extended struggles.
• Inspirational biographies remind us of others’ long-term accomplishments.

Takeaways

1. Reflect on and rewrite limiting beliefs that might be keeping you from striving toward what you want.
2. Design a strategic roadmap toward your goals and break it into manageable tasks you can target daily or weekly.
3. Stay curious. Take up new skills and lean into lifelong learning to find more meaningful opportunities.