The major difference between the 'best' and the 'average' is that the 'best' get as much pleasure from practice as performance.
In the measurement world, we set a goal and strive to achieve it. In the universe of possibility, we set the context and let life unfold.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the difference between setting rigid goals and embracing a more flexible approach to life.
Benjamin Zander's quote highlights the distinction between two approaches to achieving success: one where specific goals are set, requiring effort and determination, and another where broader possibilities are embraced, allowing life to naturally evolve. In the measurement world, we focus on concrete targets and the struggle to reach them, while in the universe of possibility, we create a context that nurtures growth and spontaneity, suggesting that sometimes success comes from adaptation and openness to new experiences.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in motivational speeches to encourage students to embrace uncertainty.
More from Benjamin Zander
All quotes →This is the moment — this is the most important moment right now. Which is: We are about contribution. That’s what our job is. It’s not about impressing people. It’s not about getting the next job. It’s about contributing something.
I have a definition of success. For me it's very simple. It's not about wealth and fame and power. It's about how many shining eyes I have around me.
Throw yourself into life as someone who makes a difference, accepting that you may not understand how or why.
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Your timeless self does not age and has no fear of the future. Contemplate your physical self and all its possessions, and practice laughing peacefully at it all.
We are free to choose our actions, . . . but we are not free to choose the consequences of these actions.
However, if we wish to be compassionate with our fellow man, we must learn to engage in dispassionate analysis. In other words, thinking with our hearts, rather than our brains, is a surefire method to hurt those whom we wish to help.
The scepticism which men affect towards their higher inspirations is often not an honest doubt, but a guilty negligence, and is a sign of narrow mind and defective wisdom.
Doing is the great thing, for if people resolutely do what is right, they come in time to like doing it.
You looking good." "Devil's confusion. He lets me look good long as I feel bad.