Forged in Fire

A few weeks ago, I came across an awesome metaphor via the “5-Bullet Friday” newsletter from Tim Ferriss. It went a little something like this:

What is it that you are hunting? Something big or something small?

Take into consideration a large, powerful and ferocious lion. Capable of taking out (probably) any living creature at any given time. 

They can track down and eat whatever their heart may desire.

Any time, anywhere. 

But, what is most worth their time? Their energy? 

What is it that will offer them the greatest return on their investment? The most bang for their buck, if you will.

Let’s pose two options:

1. Field Mice
2. Gazelle

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Field mice would be so much easier to catch, right? They can’t put up any sort of fight against nearly any creature – most certainly not a lion! 

To this, I will agree with you. They offer no sort of match for a 500-pound lion.

But, to that very lion, what positive level of nutrition does a field mouse offer, if any at all? Does it exceed the energy spent pursuing it? How many field mice equal that of the much larger gazelle, and furthermore, where does the hungry lion find the greatest value?

Let’s consider how this applies to our life here on earth as human beings.

Examples of real-world applications include, but are not limited to:

• Fitness
• Diet
• Business
• Skilled Trades

(The list could go on and on …… and on.)

Let’s take for example a business, for the sake of time. Perhaps more specifically, someone working in sales.

A salesman can spend countless hours and loads of money chasing down the field mice of the world, albeit stacking them up one piece at a time – but, at what cost?

On the flip side of the coin, the gazelle – the bigger sale. 

You get the picture.

We could run circles around this debate, especially considering the endless factors that are sure to play into it all. However, what do your instincts tell you? With this scenario laid out in front of you, which seems to be the better use of your all-too-precious time and energy (and finances, of course?)

Maybe try to connect this analogy to the life you’re currently living, keeping in mind something you may be pursuing. Goals that you’ve set, benchmarks you’re working toward. What is it that you’ll choose? The many field mice, or the lonely gazelle?

If nothing else, let this serve as some solid food for thought. 

See what I did there?

Let’s plan to dive a little deeper this time next week. Until then, Forge on.

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