The three-point line did not transform basketball simply because it was painted on the court. Its real impact came when players began to challenge long-held assumptions about what was possible from behind it. 

The three-point shot was officially introduced in the NBA during the 1979–80 season. And yet, it was not until decades later that Steph Curry, a two-time MVP, was widely credited with revolutionizing the game by making three-point shooting an offensive weapon. More recently, Caitlin Clark became a women’s basketball phenom, first at the college level and then as a professional, regularly “shooting from the logo,” sometimes from what appears to be nearly half court. 

This brings to mind a popular idea often attributed to Albert Einstein: that human beings use only a small percentage of their potential brainpower. There is no evidence that Einstein actually said this, and the scientific premise itself has been debunked. Still, the idea speaks to a broader question: How much of our potential remains unrealized simply because we have not yet imagined what might be possible? 

Achieving this level of skill requires more than practice alone. It begins with an idea—the belief that it is even possible to consistently make a shot that far away from the basket. But breaking through a mental barrier requires one more step. Beyond imagining or believing that something can be done, you must make a decision to pursue it. 

Consider Patrick Mahomes. 

The NFL quarterback and MVP, known not only for his exceptional passing but also for his ability to make plays with his legs, tore two ligaments in his knee. It was a season-ending injury and one that could have threatened the future of any player—especially if one of your strongest skills is running the football. Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid recalled being present during Mahomes’ MRI when the quarterback declared, “I’m coming back.” According to Reid, “There was no hesitation,” adding, “I don’t doubt anything he puts his mind to.”¹ 

Mahomes returned for the following season opener and helped lead Kansas City to a decisive victory. His recovery certainly demanded excellent medical care, months of rehabilitation, discipline, and hard work. But behind all of that was something even more fundamental. Mahomes had made a decision. 

I believe we create barriers in many areas of our lives. Whether consciously or, perhaps more problematically, subconsciously we decide that there are limits to what we can achieve. Over time, those assumptions can begin to feel like facts. 

In our clinic, we place tremendous emphasis on developing the technical skills needed to help our patients improve their strength, mobility, and coordination. But we also recognize that a person’s progress may be limited by deeply held beliefs about what they can or cannot achieve. 

One of the most powerful elements of our treatment is the close relationship we build with our patients. Through that relationship, we can help them recognize and break down the self-imposed barriers that may be preventing them from reaching their goals.

When someone accomplishes something in rehabilitation that they once believed was impossible, the impact can extend far beyond the clinic. They may begin to wonder what else is possible—in their health, their work, their relationships, or other areas of their life. 

Sometimes meaningful change begins with an idea. It grows into belief. But the true turning point comes when we make a decision to move forward.  

Helping people reach that moment and discover that their possibilities may be greater than they imagined is, in my view, the most meaningful role we can play as an organization. 

Very Best Wishes,

Source 

1. Nick Roesch, “Andy Reid Reveals When He Knew Patrick Mahomes Would Return,” Heavy Sports, republished by Yahoo Sports, September 11, 2026.