Don’t pole-vault over mouse turds.
“Don’t pole-vault over mouse turds” is a metaphorical phrase suggesting that one should not make minor problems bigger then they actually are. Here,”mouse turds” symbolize small issues or difficulties we encounter in daily life,while “pole-vaulting,” an activity that requires significant effort and energy,represents our tendency to react excessively or overcomplicate these minor issues.
The phrase encourages us to maintain perspective and proportionality in our response to challenges. It warns against the human tendency to dramatize or exaggerate the severity of small problems, which can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. Instead, it advises treating minor issues as they are – small bumps on the road of life that can be easily overcome without exerting excessive emotional or mental energy.
Applying this idea in today’s world could be particularly beneficial given the constant bombardment of facts and potential stressors we face. It suggests prioritizing real concerns over trivial matters. As an example, rather of getting overly upset about a negative comment on social media (a “mouse turd”), it would be more productive to focus on more critically important aspects like personal growth, relationships, health etc.
In terms of personal progress, this quote may serve as a reminder not to let insignificant setbacks derail your progress towards your goals. By refraining from “pole-vaulting over mouse turds,” you conserve emotional resources for situations that truly warrant such investment – supporting resilience and promoting healthier responses to day-to-day stressors.
