The picture shows the potential of an old ax head according to this definition: the quantity determining the energy of mass in a gravitational field or of charge in an electric field.
One end of the rope is tied to the chicken fence and the other end is tied to the gate. Once the gate latch is released gravity will pull the ax head down and the gate will open. This will keep the gate open so the chickens can go out and forage for food. I could have replaced the ax head with any weight. Maybe a brick, a rock, a log or anything. My problem is that I was the potential in the old ax head.
Potential has another definition: latent qualities or abilities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness.
I have an issue where I think things have usefulness or potential value. Some may refer to this issue as hoarding. I have a lot of excuses to explain why I contacted an auctioneer and used a 30 yard dumpster. To clean out a house.