I once worked for a man who asked for the impossible - huge new features, total re-architectures - about 4 times a year. And then he'd disappear, showing up at about 9pm for dinner once a week or so. At the end of the last one I went home surprised that the bar I passed was still open - for the first time in a month I was home before 2am last call! The really stunning part is how many of us did it for two or three years.

On the other hand, I learned more about shipping software in those three years than I have in any other place. I think there's value in attempting the impossible for a while, at least, even if it's nuts (which is sort of is by definition). As long as you're surrounded by effective peers, it's an amazing environment to watch and learn what good people can do when they're under extreme pressure to be the best they've ever been.

There's something very powerful about the battle cry. The resulting focus and intensity make good people great. Even if it's just for a while, being surrounded by people doing great things gives you a confidence and an ability that will stick with you throughout your career.

Long story short, even if it's crazy, fling aside all the rationality you've ingrained and try the impossible... even just once.