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Lessons from a Catapult

One of the most fascinating “machines” that we used to play with as a child was a catapult or the slingshot. This simple machine done with the help of a “Y” shaped branch and a strip of the tube from bicycles used to be a prized possession of children of yore. These were efficient tools to launch missiles (usually small stones or glass / stone marbles) and were used by me and my friends in the lazy summer afternoons to get mangoes from the trees that had branches hanging out from their fences onto the roads in our neighborhood orchards. Young minds derived thrill from the speed and accuracy with which the missiles could hit the target which was a more efficient and easy way in comparison to hurling the stones by hand. This nostalgic trip was a by-product of my rumination on a topic that has become a buzzword from the anxious parents to boardrooms to political leaders, from studies to businesses to countries – SUCCESS. This word exhilarates, the feeling intoxicates. Deemed elusive for most because the definitions vary and mostly because expectations at the start keep changing midway through the journey. Destinations that are widely accepted as successes are when there is a tangible product available to stamp it as a success. Without delving further on the definition of why someone or some project is a success or not, let us get into the business for today which is - the lessons that can be learnt from a catapult!

The more you pull the rubber band back, farther goes your missile. This applies well to the amount of efforts and passion that is engaged in going about the set goal. Keep stretching and calibrating how much it can be stretched. Measured and calibrated pulls will result in a strong launch.

Stretching the band beyond the threshold, will result is a snap-off. There is a thin line between going all out and going beyond. If the focus is not on the pull but on the target that is too far beyond the range, there might be a need to consider the position of launch. Too much of a pull without changing the position that brings the target in range may result in a complete break-down of the rubber band. Need to keep these things in mind while setting-up to fire the missile. A balanced approach and consistent calculation of position vis-à-vis the target will help achieve hitting the target.

Practice, keep practicing. Improving skill sets will help hitting the target. Consistent practice will improve the chances of hitting the target. Keep aiming and keep practicing till the target is reached. A day will come when you will hit the target and you can rejoice the “mango” of labour.

Happy hunting!! Go, catapult yourself to realize your dreams!!!

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