Delusion vs Faith

This post is inspired by the Oblique strategy “Simply a matter of work” which reminded me of a thought I had a few days ago.

Long time followers of my work will know that my projects generally tend to be of the large scale variety, slightly unhinged and wildly ambitious and upcoming October project is no different.

In fact, I would go as far as saying it is absolutely my most ambitious project to date.

I was on a call with a potential supplier the other day, and here are a couple of choice phrases he gave me.

“I mean, these numbers that you’re talking about are huge. ”

Yes.

“I’ve never heard of anybody doing anything like this before.”

Also yes.

If I’m going to do something – anything - I’m always going to aim for maximum impact. Otherwise why bother? Go big or go home, I say.

Indeed.

Ambition and big thinking are encouraged by traditional wisdom and brocasters-alike, but when does ambition become delusion instead of faith? And how do you know which kool aid you are drinking?

I don’t know if I can give a definitive answer on this because everybody is different, but I’d like to propose a theory.

And that theory is this: Work is the difference between delusion and faith.

Now. I’m sure there are exceptions (there always are). But I’d like to posit that if you look at the real heavy hitters like Kobe Bryant and David Goggins as two examples that immediately spring to mind– the only thing that determined if their big dreams were delusional or if it was just a matter of faith until they were achieved was their commitment to doing the work required to get there – whatever it was.

So, is your faith actually delusion? Or is your delusion actually faith?

Your willingness to do the work that is required may be the only deciding factor.

I always knew you were gonna be special.

Stay classy ✌🏻