Raising the Bar to Excellence

Why be average when you are capable of excellence? Think for a moment about the satisfaction you experienced from a job well done. Years ago while working full time and raising
two small children I earned my Master’s Degree. I poured myself into studying evenings and weekends. I attended classroom instruction for two consecutive summers.

At graduation three years later, when my name was read, as I crossed the stage and handed my diploma, I knew that I had done my personal best. In spite of all the responsibilities
I had during that time, the challenges associated with keeping my life and family together, and doubting whether I could really accomplish what I set out to do, I proved to myself what I am
capable of achieving.

For me, excellence is not about perfection; it’s about doing your personal best in every endeavor and continually striving to get better. Fulfillment is experienced by those who pursue
excellence.

From that experience forward I learned that excellence is achieved by self-training and habit. Half-way is never enough when one is capable of playing all out. When you play your best, you win. It’s essential to make plans and set goals with confidence and carry them out to the best of your ability. The only measuring tool you ever need is the one you measure against yourself. We each recognize when we are performing well. When we really acknowledge the value of everything we do, no tangible reward can substitute for our inner peace and satisfaction.

I encourage you to make excellence a habit. Every task you undertake has your name on it. It is a reflection of who you are and what you’ve accomplished. Separate yourself from others
by setting a higher example. Be worthy of your own approval. There is infinite distance between average and excellent. Decide to give up “ordinary” when you are capable of “extraordinary”. Make room for self-improvement. Increase your standards and deliver more than you had thought you were capable of. Excellence is always within your reach. Simply stated, simply do your best.