Clearly making the Olympics or being nominated for an Oscar is huge ...duh. But once you are at that level, and you feel you have a legitimate chance of winning - are you really going to settle for the honor of the nomination?
I recently saw an interview with Mel Karmazin. Like any high achiever, Mel has his fans and critics - don't we all. The part of the clip I thought was interesting was when he was explaining his mantra. Always go for the win, it's not enough to show up, and to borrow a baseball analogy; win the world series every season.
I used to work for a guy who has a much harsher view of business and believed that you must smack your opponent in the head with a 2X4, take no prisoners and shoot the wounded. How pleasant.
But seriously - who plays for a tie? ...good enough? ...that will do?
I gravitate to high achievers because they give me a constant kick in the ass. I am at my lowest when I get caught up in self-doubt or snag on a patch of inertia. It's not a fun place to visit.
There is no time well spent with those who are satisfied with keeping their heads down and skating their way to 5pm. Life isn't only about work - but if you dog it at work - me thinks that may seep into other parts of life. Trust me, I can couch with the best of them - this isn't about working all the time!
You don't have to be the President of a company in order to contribute or strive for better - but we all know those who are barely showing up. My father used to lament when referring to his staff that quittin' time was the fastest they seem to move all day.
No thanks.
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