Turning an ice block into treasure
Welcome to my first blog dedicated to Business Coaching and Mentoring. I have been writing blogs for a few years now and love to see inspiration in everyday life. Today’s topic is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Other sayings, such as one man's rubbish is another man's treasure, offer great food for thought when considering business concepts.
The idea that what is seemingly worthless to some can be valuable to others is constantly around us. I recently saw a perfect example whilst holidaying at the beautiful ski resort of St Foy in France. There was an opportunity to witness an ice sculptor at work. Faced with the largest ice cube I have ever seen, the vigorous man took no time in attacking the block with a chainsaw (an electric one at that, no need for health & safety here!). Whilst highly focused on his work, he tapped his feet in time to the beat of heavy rock music that seemingly fed his enthusiasm and commitment.
It struck me at this moment, for him, he looked at the ice block, seeing opportunity, possibilities, potential and future beauty, whereas I was just seeing a big block of boring old ice.
He was fearless, determined and competent in his creation. He had obviously practised this many times. It did beg the question, “How did he ever look at something so plain and worthless and imagine he could create such a priceless beauty with a chainsaw!?”
The lesson I learnt that day was that we all see things differently, be open to others' ideas and dreams. Everything is possible; we just have to believe and work hard to achieve our goals.
Ask yourself:
How often do I overlook potential opportunities because I see something as “ordinary” or “worthless,” and how can I train myself to spot hidden value?
In what ways am I open to others’ ideas, perspectives, or approaches that could transform my business in unexpected ways?
What “big blocks of ice” exist in my business today, tasks, challenges, or resources, that could be shaped into something extraordinary with the right focus and creativity?
How do I balance fearlessness, determination, and skill in pursuing new ideas, and where could I push myself further?
Am I actively cultivating a mindset that sees potential and possibility where others might see limitations?
