Potential projects a reality onto something that does not fully exist. It lives inside an infinite loop of possibilities, where success can not be defined and promises are not guaranteed.

Recognizing potential can be productive. Buying and selling potential can be dangerous. One encourages growth based on who we are today. The other places bets who we could become tomorrow.

Potential says, “I see you.” Potential with an agenda says, “I see you, but only in relationship to how it might benefit me.” Recognizing the difference between the two is a potentially smart thing to do.