'A shot glass of desire is greater than a pitcher of talent': this well known quote by Andy Munthe signified the central theme of the importance of self belief and persistence, in the deliberation by Jessica Cox to over 2000 students on 23 June at 'Turning impossible into accomplishment', organised by the CIMA Sri Lanka division and partnered by Achievers Lanka Business School with the Education times being media sponsors.

An armless pilot, Tae kwon-do black belt and licensed driver Jessica Cox has performed feats that most of us without so called 'physical challenges' would find daunting to emulate. When recalling the many inspiring and thought provoking concepts and ideas presented by Jessica, the importance of continuous persistence towards achievement of an individual's goals, not being restricted by fear comes to mind. Fear was creatively and thoughtfully explained as 'False Evidence Appearing Real'. A person's aspirations in achievement of greatness would only be restricted and falsified by beliefs of failure in achievement of the same, and fears embedded in a person's actions as a result of past failures.

Jessica also elaborated on the importance of persistence when striving to achieve individual goals, and clarified that fearlessness is not taking uncalculated risks but continuously staying focused on achieving objectives through practice and hard work. She related her ideas and experiences through heart warming stories of courage and commitment such as how she managed to move a 32" television when moving out to her apartment with the help of a chair with wheels, and tying shoe laces using her feet, being creative and thinking 'out of the shoe'.

This programme was approved by the ministry of education and will undoubtedly result in moulding a positive attitude and the desire to win in the young leaders of tomorrow.