The Fosgail Mindset

Episode 4: Framing Potential with Purpose and Possibility

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This episode explores the nuanced relationship between potential, possibility, and purpose, and how understanding these concepts can empower individuals and organizations—especially in libraries, theological education, and higher education—to cultivate professional wellbeing and inspire positive change.

Quote of the Episode: “Potential is, full stop. And potential will always be there no matter which choices we're presented with and which decision we ultimately make. Potential, that extant capacity to become something in the future, persists and changes shape as our future changes shape through our choices and decisions.”

Key Themes:

  • Potential vs. Possibility: Myka distinguishes between potential (the inherent capacity to develop in the future) and possibility (the paths that become available when potential is activated). Possibility flows out of potential, but both need to be grounded in a clear sense of purpose to lead to meaningful transformation.
  • The Role of Purpose: Purpose acts as the anchor that gives meaning to both potential and possibility. Myka shares her own journey clarifying Fosgail’s purpose and how this clarity has shaped the firm’s direction and methodology, including the development of the FLIP-R coaching approach.
  • Opening Possibilities: Opening possibilities is not just about envisioning what could be, but about connecting to purpose, exploring present potential, and intentionally choosing which paths to pursue. Myka emphasizes that potential is ever-present and shaped by context, not diminished by past choices or current limitations.

    • Reflective Questions:

    Myka offers five reflective questions to help listeners recalibrate their thinking around purpose, potential, and possibility:

    1. Where is the unexplored potential in this situation?
    2. What possibilities can you imagine?
    3. What would it take to open new possibilities?
    4. How does your purpose align with the situation, and where are the points of friction?
    5. With greater awareness, how might you connect with potential to open those possibilities?

      6. Read the companion blog post: https://www.fosgail.org/blog/2025/06/10/2025-06-10_reflecting-on-3-ps/

      To sign up for the Fosgail Field Notes newsletter: https://www.fosgail.org/discover-more/newsletter/

      To join the Fosgail Community: https://community.fosgail.org

      Recorded June 10, 2025 with Descript.

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      The Fosgail MindsetBy Myka Kennedy Stephens