Aristotle on Excellence
"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives - choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” -Aristotle
Aristotle's quote about excellence is a powerful reminder that greatness is not a coincidence. It's a result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution.
Yet, we often only see the finished product of excellence, such as trophies, championships, or successful products, without recognizing the hard work and sacrifices that went into achieving it.
We idolize athletes like Tiger Woods, Annika Sorenstam, Kobe Bryant and Serena Williams, or business leaders like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, for their excellence. But what we often overlook is the dedication, focus, and persistence that they put into their craft. The early mornings, missed family events, and countless hours of practice, training, and preparation.
If you want to achieve excellence, you must also be willing to make sacrifices and put in the effort required to succeed. This might mean sacrificing your time, your comfort, or your social life to pursue your goals. It means prioritizing your goals above anything else and staying committed to your vision even when it's challenging.
Excellence also requires intelligent execution. This means working smart, not just hard. It involves analyzing your performance, seeking feedback and support from mentors, and continuously refining your approach until you reach your goals.
So, to all the aspiring athletes and business leaders out there, remember that excellence is within your reach if you're willing to put in the work. It won't be easy, but the rewards are worth it. And always remember that the choice to pursue excellence is yours.