Excellence Is Never An Accident

"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

When embarking on a road trip, unless a bout of aimless wandering around the country is what you want, it’s essential to have a destination in mind and, if it’s somewhere new or unfamiliar, a map.

Most people in the world are living someone else’s agenda. They’re trying to achieve goals set by someone else. We could say that most people are on a path of aimless wandering – much like a traveller being told to go somewhere by someone else, but without being given a specific destination or a map to get there.

It would be very valuable to you if you look at different areas or aspects of your life and ask yourself: “What is the intention here?”, “What am I trying to achieve?”, “Where is it taking me?” Consider the areas of your life that include: family and relationships, business and career, spirituality, money and finances, education and personal development, health, hobbies and fun, and social contribution.

Most people, by their own admission, are not living fulfilling lives and to their full potential. One of the main causes of this is a lack of clear and focused intention and direction.

Without clear direction, we’re unable to focus our effort and energy. Our effort becomes most effective when we have set a clear intention. Most people merely do an adequate job of trying whatever it is they’re doing because they are relatively uninspired by the task. Sincere effort comes from having a clear and sincere intention. It flows naturally. Look at the areas of your life where you are just “hanging out” or “clocking time.” This indicates insincere effort. However, it does also present you with an opportunity to create a more focused and clear intention.

As humans, we tend to see in purely linear “cause and effect” terms. “When given lemons, make lemonade” is certainly a simplistic statement, but most people who are successful have had to become adept at taking a challenge and using it as an opportunity for benefit, value and profit. This ability to turn challenges into success comes from a number of ways, including introspection, and guidance and support from open minded and visionary people.

Being clear in what you want will help you to identify how you’re going to get it. Having the mindset of overcoming challenges, and having the support and guidance of suitable peers, will help keep you on track when you undoubtedly face a ‘bump in the road’ on your journey.

If you can be clear on what you want, and then stay on track when you face challenges, you’ll soon be able to trade mediocrity for excellence.