What’s the fundamental distinction between simply striving towards a goal, perhaps with a narrow focus on achievement, and truly pursuing excellence in that same endeavor? I’m interested in exploring not just the difference in motivation, but also how those differences manifest in the process, the outcomes, and the overall impact on the individual and potentially others. Does “striving” imply a more extrinsic motivation, while “pursuing excellence” suggests a deeper, intrinsic drive and a commitment to continuous improvement and mastery? How does the mindset and approach differ in terms of dealing with failure, embracing challenges, and viewing the overall learning journey? And finally, does the pursuit of excellence necessarily mean achieving “perfect” results, or does it represent something more nuanced?
Answer
Striving for something focuses on achieving a specific outcome or goal, while pursuing excellence centers on the continuous improvement of one’s skills, knowledge, and character.
Striving for Something:
- Goal-Oriented: The primary focus is on reaching a predetermined target. Success is defined by whether or not the goal is achieved.
- Extrinsic Motivation: Motivation often stems from external rewards, recognition, or avoidance of punishment associated with achieving the goal.
- Measurable Results: Progress is typically measured by quantifiable results related to the target.
- Finite Endpoint: Once the goal is achieved, the striving often ceases.
- May Involve Shortcuts: The focus on the outcome can sometimes lead to compromising principles or taking shortcuts to achieve the target more quickly or easily.
- Potential for Disappointment: Failure to achieve the goal can lead to significant disappointment and a feeling of wasted effort.
- Fixed Mindset (often): Can be associated with a fixed mindset where abilities are seen as fixed, and effort is viewed as a means to prove oneself rather than to grow.
Pursuing Excellence:
- Process-Oriented: The emphasis is on the journey of continuous learning, growth, and self-improvement. Success is defined by the dedication to the process and the progress made.
- Intrinsic Motivation: Motivation comes from a deep personal desire to improve and master one’s craft or develop one’s character.
- Qualitative and Quantitative Results: Progress is evaluated both by qualitative improvements (e.g., increased understanding, refined skills) and quantitative measures (e.g., performance metrics).
- Ongoing Process: Excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey of refinement and development.
- Emphasis on Integrity: A commitment to excellence demands ethical behavior, honesty, and a dedication to doing things the right way, even when it is difficult.
- Resilience to Setbacks: Setbacks are seen as opportunities for learning and growth, fostering resilience and a determination to improve.
- Growth Mindset (often): Associated with a growth mindset where abilities are seen as malleable and effort is viewed as a means to develop them. Failure provides information for future growth.
- Holistic Development: Striving for excellence encompasses the development of the whole person, including intellectual, emotional, and moral growth.
- Positive Impact: The pursuit of excellence often extends beyond individual achievement, contributing to the improvement of the surrounding environment, community, or field.
Pray This Prayer
Dear God,
I come before you today seeking clarity and guidance on a distinction that troubles my heart: the difference between striving and pursuing excellence.
I see myself striving, pushing, and straining toward goals, often fueled by ambition and a desire to achieve. But sometimes, in this striving, I find myself caught in a whirlwind of anxiety, comparison, and a fear of failure that blinds me to the true potential of the journey.
Help me understand, Lord, what is the core difference between this striving and the pursuit of excellence. Is striving simply a relentless push, while excellence is a conscious unfolding, guided by purpose and a deep love for the craft? Is striving fueled by ego, while excellence blossoms from humility and a desire to honor you through my work?
I pray for the wisdom to discern when I am simply striving, and when I am truly pursuing excellence. Grant me the grace to release the need to control outcomes, and instead, focus on the process of learning, growing, and honing my skills with dedication and integrity.
Help me to embrace the challenges and setbacks along the way as opportunities for growth, knowing that even in imperfection, there is beauty and value. May I be motivated not by the desire for praise or recognition, but by the inner satisfaction of knowing I have given my best, in service to you and to the world around me.
Lead me, Lord, on the path of excellence, where striving transforms into a joyful and meaningful pursuit of your divine potential within me.
Amen.
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