How to be the Best
Growth Begets Growth
I wouldn’t say that I’m more intelligent than the average person. But I definitely out-work others.
Where the average person might see the ‘9 to 5’ as how long they have to be there until they can go home, I see the ‘9 to 5’ as a the a recommended time slot to complete the day’s tasks.
Hard work means working hard, not just showing up. Hard work is asking “how much can I contribute?” instead of “what’s the minimum effort I have to contribute?” Hard work means seeing a goal through to its completion, no matter what. Put in the work, put in the time, and don’t stop until the job is done. Stay later if needed, stay awake if needed, stay determined to your goal until you see it completed. Recognize what needs to be done and how you can do it. Then get to it.
This ability to work hard has afforded me opportunities that expose me to information and experiences that further my understanding.
This exposure to information compounds over time. Of course, you might forget things after a while, this is normal. But being a learner is to constantly learn and re-learn information. If you’re always learning more than you’re forgetting, you’re increasing your wealth of knowledge.
I wouldn’t say I’m more intelligent than the average person. But I definitely out-learn others. I read books, listen to podcasts, lectures, speeches, and other instances of people smarter than myself sharing what they know. Be humble, accept there’s always more to learn, and open your mind to what you don’t know.
Combine your learned knowledge with experienced wisdom and you will be unstoppable.
I wouldn’t say I’m more charming or likeable than the average person. But I definitely show more of an interest in others. I’m genuinely interested in other people — they’re values, experiences, and how they see the world. I ask questions, I listen, I share my honest thoughts. It’s amazing the things you learn from another person. And guess what? What you learn from others gets added to your own learned knowledge and experienced wisdom.
I wouldn’t say I’m more intelligent than the average person. But I definitely chose to be a team player and a peacemaker. I try my best to not start unnecessary conflict out of boredom or an unchecked ego. If someone’s right and I’m wrong, I admit they’re right and I’m wrong. If I made a mistake, I admit I made a mistake. If I don’t know something, I ask questions instead of pretending I’m better than I am. If someone is angry, I work to understand why they’re angry. If someone has a problem with things, I work with them to figure out a practical solution. If someone is acting unreasonably in a way that negatively affects the team, I tell them in a way that is tactful, diplomatic, and spares their feelings while doing what is necessary for the team and the Good beyond myself.
I’ve noticed that if you do these things, good things happen wherever you go. Out-work, but be humble. Out-learn, but be modest. Realize that growth creates more growth, but keep your sights on the Good beyond yourself. Form meaningful relationships with others and work as a team towards a common goal. If you can do this, then the world is yours.
