In the mid 90’s a young student with severe dyslexia, joined my drum school in Harrow (UK). I knew it would be a challenge, but I love challenges, so I took him on.

From the first lesson it was clear: Nathan was polite, passionate and gave 100% every time. But memory struggles made progress slow and inconsistent. He could play something perfectly, then forget it moments later. His head would drop, frustration often set in and after six months of small wins but no real breakthrough, I began to wonder if he’d ever truly play drums.

Something had to change.

So, in his next lesson I asked: “Nathan, how would you like to do an exam?” He was stunned: “Who me”.  His mother was supportive but unsure. Yet something shifted in Nathan – his focus, belief, determination changed.

So we got to work!

Together, we worked methodically through the Guildhall School of Music Grade 1 syllabus, completed mock exams, and when the time came I entered Nathan for the real one.

The result? High Honours.

My wife received the call from Nathan’s mother, in tears: “You have no idea what this means to Nathan.” I did.

Key takeaways:

• A clear goal can ignite belief.
• The right guidance can turn “impossible” into “possible.”
• Performance thrives when mindset, effort and direction align.

Nathan taught me that potential isn’t defined by ability alone. It’s about attitude, resilience and someone believing in you long enough for you to believe in yourself.

In future when you’re faced with the impossible… remember Nathan.

Photo: Quotefancy

Georg Voros is a Performance Consultant with 45+ years of top-level experience and author of two books on performance. He delivers high-impact workshops on productivity and flow, and offers tailored mentoring packages to support personal growth and achievement. Learn more at www.vorosperformance.co.uk