Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Success vs Value

A while back, I came across a quote from Einstein and it made me pause, think, and say to myself "Hmm, wow."   Here it is:

"Strive not to be a success, but to be of value."

I suppose on surface level, this is just a good component for a mash up of inspirational, fluffy quotes.  And that is, in fact, where I found it.  But I decided to think on it a little further, apart from the mash up, and go beyond surface level.

What typically comes to mind when I think about being a success?
Promotions, money, car, comfort, a healthy 401k, generally moving up the proverbial ladder of life.

Who typically comes to mind when I think about being a success?
ME.

What typically comes to mind when I think about being of value?
Providing a service, doing good work, creating good products, leaving a mark, making a difference.

Who typically comes to mind when I think about being of value?
OTHERS.

I wrote this quote on a post-it note and stuck it near one of my three computer monitors at work.  It's a handy reminder and a challenge.

What do you strive to be?

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