The issue isn't knowing what to do. It's caring enough to actually do it.

We’re constantly bombarded with challenges and struggles that stress us out and occasionally make me check my retirement account (on my phone 😉) during lunch.

BUT the priority is the ‘AND.’

Yes, this is a challenge. AND what are we going to do about it?!?

High performers and artists are notorious for taking their craft extremely personally. It’s part of what makes them great, but if you’re not careful, it’s also part of what can make them blind to critical feedback.

I get so caught up in what I know and understand about my work that I’ll refuse to hear what others are saying, positive or constructive.

While the story reminds me of the importance of challenging those around us to be their best, I think we should be having a significantly more important conversation with ourselves.

Am I offering those around me my best work? And, more importantly, am I providing them with the training, tools, and environment they need to create their best work?

I find myself wondering out loud, “Why do I subject myself to this?!?!”  Then I chuckle and remind the other voices in my head of the truth: this is exactly where I want to be. 

The mindset is that being exceptional comes from being different (a category my mom tells me I’ve had decent market share of for years).  To truly create something different, you have to act, prioritize, and think differently.