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A Taste for Saltwater
Most people treat discomfort like a warning sign – something to back away from. But the great ones? They read it as a green light. To them, discomfort isn’t a reason to stop; it’s proof they’re headed in the right direction. What we often call “genius” is really just pain tolerance in disguise. The true edge isn’t talent – it’s the strange, stubborn ability to lean into what everyone else tries to escape.
Cornelius Vanderbilt had a taste for saltwater. Literally, yes – he piloted ferries through freezing blizzards when wiser captains stayed ashore. But metaphorically, too. He had an extraordinary capacity to withstand what others couldn’t.
Financial storms? He ran his operations at break-even to crush his rivals. Psychological warfare? He once threatened to block all rail access to New York City – and meant it.
What made Vanderbilt so dangerous wasn’t just ambition or strategy. It was his relationship with pain. He was willing to suffer conditions that would break most men – and he built an empire while they flinched.
In sailboat racing, there’s a move called the “Vanderbilt Start.” It demands boldness, contrarian instincts, and the nerve to ride out discomfort. Fitting, isn’t it? His legacy isn’t just steel and steam – it’s the quiet lesson that resilience, not brilliance, is what moves history.
Read more at Shane Parrish’s blog:
https://fs.blog/knowledge-project-podcast/outliers-cornelius-vanderbilt/
A Taste Of Saltwater
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About The Article Author:
Hi, I’m Rachana. Its been my dream for years to do something to consciously create a better future where every one of us is excited about our own potential. My challenge to everyone is that they aspire for their personal best and leave a legacy of their work through their contributions to mankind.
One more thing. In December of 2044, I hope to win the Nobel.
Will you join me on this journey of growth and transformation?
Namasté.
COURAGE - A Pillar of FutureSTRONG Academy
Our children will one day face the real world without our support. Academic development is not the only skill they will need in the real world where people skills like taking the lead, emotional intelligence and a strong moral compass will determine who will shine. So, as parents who want to raise well rounded adults, we want to give them the right tools for their personal development.
Here is COURAGE as described as the 6 C’s of Future STRONG.
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