Think Remarkable

Have you ever wondered how certain people manage to stay positive, adapt, and continue to push forward even when the odds are stacked against them? They don’t necessarily have special advantages or access to unlimited resources. Instead, they have the resolve to grow, persist, and uplift those around them. In doing so, they cultivate a life of impact as well as personal fulfillment. This summary explores a holistic way to develop that same capacity in yourself. Through real-life anecdotes—from surfing gigantic waves to confronting a life-altering diagnosis—we’ll see what it really means to adopt a learning mindset, fight through obstacles, and ultimately lead with kindness. The focus isn’t just on prime examples like champion athletes or famous entrepreneurs; it’s on the practical steps and emotional readiness that anyone can apply. In the pages ahead, let’s examine the three core phases of growth, grit, and grace. We’ll uncover how to handle setbacks, how to stay open to new experiences, and why helping others multiplies our own capacity to succeed. Think of these ideas as an invitation, a friendly nudge to discover what truly makes someone remarkable, and how you can bring more of that energy into your everyday life.

Let’s begin this journey by examining why it’s crucial to nurture a mindset that craves learning. This first step sets the stage for developing true grit and ultimately moving forward with grace.

People often assume that talent or luck is the key to moving mountains. In reality, adopting a growth mindset is a far more powerful starting point. A growth mindset means believing you can expand your abilities through practice, curiosity, and openness to feedback. Consider how one iconic primatologist, Jane Goodall, pursued her love of animals from an early age. She had no fancy academic background, yet her unshakable drive to understand chimpanzees led her to East Africa. Over many years, she revolutionized what we know about these creatures. Her early disadvantage—no formal university degree—was no match for her determination to learn, adapt, and make discoveries that would transform scientific understanding.

Another example is Mark Rober, a NASA engineer who went beyond designing space missions and started creating entertaining science videos. This leap required him to learn new skills, put himself in front of millions, and risk negative feedback. But each new challenge took him one step closer to bigger, bolder goals. Whether you want to switch careers or learn to play an instrument, it starts by saying: “I can improve.” Set aside the idea that abilities remain fixed. By immersing yourself in new environments, reading broadly, or talking to people who think differently than you, you spark opportunities that stretch your capabilities.

Finally, find mentors or teams that encourage experimentation. A supportive environment multiplies your progress. Seeking out growth-oriented places—like a dynamic startup, a creative workshop, or a sports team that values learning—can amplify your potential. The more exposure to new ideas and practices, the greater your mindset expands.