Defying Doubt: Only You Know Your True Potential

We’ve all faced moments when others doubt us, questioning our ability to achieve what we know in our hearts is possible. I remember vividly when I first took up rowing, driven by a newfound passion and a dream to represent Australia at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games. After winning my first national competition in the Double Sculls, I felt ready to take it to the next level, so I reached out to Rowing Australia about classification and joining the national team.

Their response was a shock. I received an email saying I would never be good enough or fit enough to make a national team. For a moment, I was stunned. But then I reminded myself of a powerful truth: unless someone can see the core of your heart and the depth of your determination, they have no business telling you what you can or cannot achieve.

People may know the statistics, they may know the odds, but they do not know you—your passion, your grit, your willingness to go beyond what others expect. These are qualities only you truly understand, and they are the force that drives you when the world underestimates your potential.

So, when others cast doubt, remember that you are the one who knows what you’re capable of. You alone can see the heights you’re ready to reach, fueled by a purpose and willpower only you possess.

Oh, and by the way—the following year, I did make the national team! Our crew narrowly missed Beijing, but we placed 6th at the World Championships the following year. That experience taught me to never let someone else’s doubts stand in the way of my dreams.

Because sometimes, “never” is just the beginning!