Potential

adjective 1. having or showing the capacity to become or develop into something in the future.

My hairline is receding.

Before that, at some point in my early teens the purpose of my life switched. It switched from whatever most children focus on — candy and cartoon mainly, to a effort of learning what I was capable of. Growing creatively, evolving mentally, struggling socially, deepening emotionally.

And ever since, the fear of not reaching my full potential has been there. Either a force for good, pushing me to excel or a nagging negative reminder that I still haven’t reached it. That I’m not satisfied with where I am, and still capable of more.

I guess, the thing about potential is, it hinges on dissatisfaction with the present. So the idea of “reaching ones full potential” means what? That you’ve arrived, and you’re not capable of anything more?

Take a breath. Realize what you’ve already achieved. You’re 26, fuck having a “full head of hair”. Now focus — keep striving.

Strive verb 1. make great efforts to achieve or obtain something.