Is potential something we’re born with? Is it tied to our abilities, the choices we make, or the way we spend our time? I recently came across a quote from Founders Podcast about the founder of Hyundai: “Time is a form of capital that is equally distributed to everyone.” Because time is universally distributed, so is the possibility of success. And if success is universally distributed too, we all hold unlimited potential in this world.

Potential is often spoken of as a fixed quality, something we fulfill or squander. But, it isn’t a static measure: potential is what we create when we apply time and effort. Dedication of time leads to mastery, and mastery leads to success. Skill, determination, and achievement aren’t predetermined - they are the products of intentional work.

Since time equates to growth, we can say that growth equates to potential. For example, imagine two people learning a new hobby. If both commit equal time to the hobby, they will progress at similar rates. If one invests more time or approaches the craft with greater intention, they will naturally outpace the other - not by matter of innate ability, but of dedication. Time then becomes the great equalizer, offering anyone the ability to succeed. Our potential then, is as limited as the time we are willing to devote.

Note that it’s not about sacrificing every waking moment in the pursuit of success. We should recognize that time is a resource used to build something meaningful - a life, a skill, or a contribution to the world. If it isn’t meaningful to us, we are simply wasting our potential. But by believing that our dedication will lead ourselves to what truly matters, we will achieve unimaginable heights. This in itself creates a mindset of opportunity, possibility, and eventually, success. When we see our potential as limitless, we will open doors to new opportunities for ourselves. It’s a self fulfilling prophecy.

The age-old question of hard work versus natural talent always favors the former. Time spent working, practicing, and improving often outshines raw intelligence or natural ability simply because hard work is the application of time. And, if time - not talent - relates to potential, then excellence is within reach for anyone. Success becomes a choice, not a gift.

Each of us has within us the power to shape our lives, to discover what we are uniquely suited for, and to create something remarkable. Our world is filled with endless possibilities from individuals who, when given the chance and the time, can contribute to their own success. Through our own efforts, we can reach our unlimited potential.