In a time when job opportunities were scarce in the United States, George Danzig was a graduate student in mathematics. His professor, who also headed the mathematics department, announced that the student with the best grade on the final exam would be hired as his research assistant—a highly coveted position.
Determined to secure this opportunity, George studied tirelessly, sacrificing sleep to prepare for the exam. Despite his efforts, he overslept and arrived late for the test. Nevertheless, he quickly tackled the eight math problems on the exam and noticed two additional problems written on the blackboard. Without hesitation, he copied them down and began working on them.
As George struggled with these two problems, he couldn’t help but feel daunted by the thought that someone else might solve them before him. He persevered, pushing through the frustration. When the test time concluded, several students requested more time, which the professor granted, extending the deadline to Friday.
George took advantage of the extension, dedicating himself to solving the seemingly impossible problems. Night after night, he worked tirelessly, driven by a belief in his ability to find a solution. He just kept thinking somebody was going to get these solved. Why not me? Why not me? By Thursday morning, he had solved one problem, and by Friday morning, the second one fell into place. He submitted his test just before the deadline.
On Sunday morning, George was awakened by a knock at his door. His professor stood there, excitedly announcing, “George, you’ve made mathematical history! I realized on my way over here that you were late to the test, right?”
Confused, George replied, “Yes, did I do something wrong?”
“No,” the professor said, “the eight questions were the actual test. I had mentioned that these two problems were unsolved mathematical challenges that even Einstein couldn’t crack. How did you solve them?”
George explained that if he had known they were considered unsolvable, he might have approached them with doubt. Instead, he saw them as problems to be solved, opening himself up to the possibilities.
George’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, belief, and leadership. His determination and unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges reveal the potential within all of us to achieve the extraordinary.
Now I don’t know what it is that you are facing. But I know this about you: That you are connected to the Infinite. You have the power and the potential to be everything you want to be, to give everything you want to give…and to build a life you truly love!
Know that there is always a solution available for any problem you may be facing.
Your job is to stay open to that possibility.
For more information on targeted leadership training and strategic tools to transform your team, break through barriers, and increase results, contact Audrey.
