Mindset story: Don't wait for something to happen to go after what you want

Once there was a king who received a remarkable gift, two magnificent peregrine falcons. They were the most beautiful birds he had ever seen, their feathers sleek and their eyes sharp. Recognizing their value, the king entrusted the birds to his head falconer, who was tasked with training them to soar through the skies. Months passed, and the falconer observed the birds closely. One of them had taken to the skies with power and grace, soaring majestically above the palace gardens. However, the other falcon remained motionless on its branch, refusing to fly. No matter how much the falconer coaxed it, the bird simply would not leave its perch. Perplexed, the falconer informed the king of the strange situation. Concerned, the king summoned the finest healers and sorcerers from across the land, hoping they could cure whatever ailment was keeping the falcon grounded. But despite their best efforts, the bird remained stubbornly still. Determined to solve the problem, the king turned to the members of his court. “Surely, among my wisest advisors, someone must know how to make this falcon fly,” he declared. Each court member offered a different solution. Some suggested rare herbs, while others recommended elaborate rituals. Yet, day after day, the king looked out his window and saw the falcon still clinging to its branch. Nothing had changed.

Growing impatient, the king realized he needed a different approach. “I cannot wait for this bird to fly on its own,” he thought. “Perhaps someone with a deeper understanding of nature will know what to do.” With that, he called out to his court, “Find me a farmer.” By morning, the king was met with an astonishing sight, the once-stationary falcon was now soaring high above the palace, its wings cutting through the sky with confidence and freedom. Elated, the king ordered his men to bring the farmer before him. When the humble man arrived, the king asked, “How did you make the falcon fly?” The farmer bowed his head respectfully and answered, “It was simple, Your Highness. I simply cut the branch where the bird was sitting.” The king fell silent, pondering the wisdom in the farmer’s words. The falcon had not flown because it was too comfortable where it was. It had feared the unknown and clung to the familiar. Only when its branch was gone did it realize that it had wings meant to soar.