Don’t Trade Excellence for Efficiency
There is something satisfying about being efficient. We like getting things done. We like making progress. We like checking the box.
But sometimes our desire for efficiency becomes an excuse for settling. There are times when "good enough" really is good enough. Not everything requires perfection. But the things that shape our relationships deserve more than simply getting them done. Excellence has the power to inspire, and inspiration creates influence.
So how do we move from simply being efficient to pursuing excellence?
1. Be intentional.
Excellence begins with purpose. Before you act, ask yourself: What do I want this person to experience?
2. Give the extra.
Excellence is often found in the little bit more—the extra preparation, the handwritten note, the thoughtful question, or the follow-up conversation. The extra is rarely convenient, but it's often what people remember.
3. Focus on impact, not completion.
Checking something off a list feels good, but completion and impact are not the same thing. Instead of asking, "Did I get it done?" ask, "Did it make a difference?" That simple question shifts our focus from accomplishing tasks to influencing people.
Efficiency certainly has its place. We don't need to make everything harder or more complicated than it needs to be. But we should never allow our pursuit of efficiency to lower our standard of excellence.
People are rarely inspired by what was merely easy or adequate. They are inspired by someone who cared enough to give their best.
When we choose to shift from simply getting it done to intentionally seeking excellence, we will make a difference.
Larry
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