Future-Proofing You

2Leveraging Obstacles for Success

It's not that I'm so smart, it's just that I stay with problems longer.

—Albert Einstein

AFTER LOSING HIS ARM in a car crash, a young boy's parents thought it would help their son's self‐confidence if he studied judo. The Japanese judo master was impressed with the 10‐year‐old's attitude and personally trained him week after week. The boy took the lessons seriously, practicing day and night. After three months of vigorous practice, the boy was frustrated that the old master had only taught him one single move. “Sensei, I have worked so hard on this move. I think I am ready to learn another one,” the boy implored.

“This move you know,” proclaimed the wise master. “This is the only move you will ever need to know.” Wanting to be respectful of his old teacher, the boy continued to practice his one move and had the confidence to enter his first tournament. With his sensei looking on, the boy swiftly defeated his first opponent. Then he won his second and third matches, too. As he progressed through each round, the competition he faced grew larger and more experienced. Mustering all his strength, and to the amazement of everyone at the event, the young boy made it into the finals. Now, standing before him, was a teenager nearly twice his size. Seeing the one‐armed boy and fearing for his safety, the referee told the sensei that as heroic as the child's accomplishments in the day had been, he was going to call off the match. But the sensei insisted ...