“I long to accomplish great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble.”
Helen Keller
Are you committed to excellence in everything you do?
Some of life’s best lessons are found in the sports world (at least I think so). I distinctly recall some years ago a professional basketball player who had an amazing year. By all accounts, he was grossly underpaid relative to his teammates. He always gave it his best and his coaches rewarded him with greater playing time. Predictably during the off-season, his agent sought to renegotiate the contract. After extensive discussions, he received a substantial increase in salary, befitting his contribution to the team.
When we participate in anything, whether individually or as part of a team, we contribute two things: our TALENT and our ATTITUDE. In this example, the player’s talent was a constant, but his attitude was an unfortunate variable.
When you’re competing as an individual, your own dignity and self-respect are at stake. When you’re part of a team, however, you shoulder the added responsibility of contributing to the total effort. When one person fails to hold up his (or her) end of the bargain, the whole team suffers the consequences.
Never take lightly the responsibility of being part of a team. Whether at school or in the workplace, if you always give it your best, regardless of whether it’s a major project or minor task, you’ll be respected and admired. That’s the hallmark of a true winner.
When it comes to working with others, do you set a high standard for your performance? Do you strive to never let your team down by your lack of effort? Do you apply the same standards of excellence in matters big and small? Please share your comments with our online community! And "share" this pointer with a friend!