The great Bob Marley, who died tragically young at the age of 36, once said, “The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.”
Bob Marley had it right.
It’s not about the money. For me, it has never been about the money. But I’ve always been driven to succeed and have had a passionate, burning desire to help improve the lives of others. And I’ve always believed in conducting my business with integrity. It makes sense, and it’s just good Karma.
You’re not born great, that’s for sure. Greatness is something that you achieve. And I say “you” because it’s something that you can achieve if you want it badly enough. Each of us has a God-given potential for greatness. It’s up to us whether we exercise that option or not.
The human spirit can accomplish anything it wants if you allow it to be freed from the shackles of fear and doubt. Never underestimate the power that lies deep within you. Always believe that you can achieve greatness in your chosen field. Make up your mind to be the best and nothing can stop you.
Research shows that achieving greatness depends on your willingness to make sacrifices; to practice until you get perfect; to invest the extra hours of sweat and toil; to work hard.
As Van Gogh said “Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.”
If you work towards attaining your full potential as a human being you will achieve greatness. Don’t be swayed by the doubters and the naysayers. Have dreams. Believe in your dreams. Make your dreams happen. Because no-one is going to do it for you. No-one is going to hand you a free lunch on a plate.
It’s up to you to break through the barriers of mediocrity. It’s up to you to stretch yourself. You can spend your time doing the mundane and the ordinary or you can spend your time applying your brain power in new and innovative ways.
You can take time during your work day to buy and sell stuff on eBay or watch the latest funny videos on YouTube or you can be doing research that will lead to breakthrough initiatives for your business. You can put the same amount of energy into any activity. What’s your choice?
Greatness isn’t reserved for a special chosen few. Greatness is accessible for anyone who wants it. But you have to want it. You have to not be willing to accept second best. Achieving greatness means being the best. Making your own masterpiece. Inspiring others to join you on the journey. Being a revolutionary who never, ever quits. The ultimate prize can be yours. You just need to go for it. You can do it.
Along the way be sure to avoid those who don’t support and encourage you. Surround yourself with like-minded, energetic, enthusiastic people who are willing to work as hard as you. Greatness has a magnetic energy that attracts greatness. As one great writer put it:
“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”