"Nous sommes déterminés par le fait de la naissance par la structure corporelle et mentale que nous apportons dans le monde"

Life shapes us from the very moment we're born. Think about it. From our very first breath, the way we look, the way we think, the way we feel—it's all influenced by our biology and the mental wiring we're born with. This idea isn't new. It's rooted in the understanding that our genetics play a big role in who we become.

Picture this: A child born into a family of athletes. From a young age, they're likely to be surrounded by sports, fitness, and a certain mindset towards physical activity. Their body, probably strong and agile, complements the environment they're raised in. But it's not just about the physical. If that child also has a mental inclination towards discipline and a competitive spirit, they’re more likely to excel in sports. Now, contrast this with a child born into a family of artists. Their environment might be filled with colors, creativity, and a different kind of discipline—one that fosters imagination over physical prowess.

This idea that our birth determines so much about us can be traced back through history and literature. Think of Shakespeare's "The Tempest" where Caliban is portrayed as inherently wild and untamed, a product of his lineage and the island he was born on. Similarly, in modern times, we see this in the nature vs. nurture debate where genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) are constantly discussed.

Take Michael Phelps, for instance. He was born with a body that's almost perfectly designed for swimming—long arms, big feet, and a heart that pumps more efficiently than most. But it wasn't just his body. His mental structure played a huge role too. He had the determination, focus, and the ability to push through pain and fatigue. Sure, he trained hard, but his body and mind were his starting point.

So, how do you apply this to your life? Start by understanding your own strengths and limitations. If you know you're naturally good at something, lean into it. Develop it. If you’re aware of your mental tendencies—like being more anxious or more laid-back—use that to your advantage. Maybe you’re great at staying calm under pressure, or maybe you need to work a bit harder to manage stress. Either way, acknowledging these things helps you navigate life more effectively.

Imagine a scenario: You’ve always been fascinated by music. You have a natural ear for it, picking up melodies easily. Your family has a history of musicians, and you’ve been surrounded by music since you were born. You feel a deep connection to it, something that feels as natural as breathing. But school pressures are pushing you towards a career in medicine. What do you do? If you recognize that music is not just a hobby, but a part of your mental and bodily make-up, you might decide to follow it passionately. You might not abandon medicine altogether, but maybe you find a way to balance both, knowing that your love for music is an intrinsic part of who you are.

Life is about playing the hand you’re dealt. Understand your cards, and use them well. You don't get to choose your starting point, but you do get to decide how you play. So, embrace the unique combination of body and mind you were born with. It’s what makes you, you.