This entire blog entry came out of a discussion I had with my friend Tendai Kurwa. We were discussing the parallels between planting a seed and human life. Bear with me as it will get a bit cheesy at times but it is worth reading anyway!
First up what gives a plant the advantage is the right genetic material. Some plants are genetically evolved with characteristics that make it easier for them to thrive in certain environments. These genetic or hereditary endowments are obviously not selected in nature (but may be selected in a lab). In the same way, there are characteristics we are born with that make it easier for us to survive or thrive in certain environments. As an example, someone born with an above average IQ and affinity for numbers may really thrive in an environment that values this competence. What is important to remember, however, is that not all genetic endowments are relevant for their environments. A cactus may survive happily in a desert with minimal rainfall, but may die in a rainforest. In the same way the number crunching genius may struggle in an environment that values creativity over accuracy.
This is where it starts to get interesting. While a plant may be predisposed genetically to do better in a certain environment, we can still do what we can to create the conditions that will allow that plant to thrive. As an example, I don’t live in a desert but have several cacti and succulents that I have been able to keep alive for several years. This is simply by understanding the conditions they thrive under and trying to create those conditions by varying the water intake and access to sunlight. In the same way for people, there are conditions in which we thrive and conditions in which we don’t. I have been astounded in my career to see people who were written off in one company, simply see their careers take off in another company. Same individual, same skills, but totally different outcome. Thankfully, the conditions for success can be created or simulated to match a certain individual or groups of individuals. Even if their hereditary endowments do not give them an advantage.
So we’ve planted our seed. It’s made of the right stuff and the conditions for success are all present. But the job is not quite done. We have to maintain these conditions for success. Anyone who has partaken in gardening will know the many hours taken up by menial tasks such as pruning, fertilising and repotting plants. You never see the results right away, however, you know it will be good for the plants in the long run. In the same way, people require maintenance. We need rest, we need a work life balance that allows us to pursue social relationships. We need exercise and a good diet. We need mental health and physical health. We need to be up skilled where are skills are weak. We seldom see the results right away, however, the results will appear in the future.
Finally, one fascinating thing about a seed or a plant is that we typically focus on what is above the soil. We see the pretty flowers or the strong vines and assume those to be the evidence of a strong plant. However, the evidence of a strong plant is actually in its roots. Roots are typically underground and nobody can see them. They are usually brown, ugly and covered in dirt. Without them most plants cannot survive, yet alone thrive. You guessed it, humans are not that different either. Nobody can see what you have been up to underground. All the invisible hours you put towards making yourself the best version of yourself to support your future growth are your roots.
As a parting shot. Sometimes the best ideas come from the simplest ideas and most random conversations. Wishing you a wonderful year ahead where you can maximise your God given talents, under the right conditions. Don’t forget to look after yourself and invest in those things that will help you go further in the future.
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