Chapter 1: Understanding the Drive for Greatness

Consider diving into "How to Do Great Work" by Paul Graham, a renowned figure in the startup investment realm.

It's important to note that this piece presumes a level of ambition that many may not possess. In my experience, when questioning companies about their commitment to excellence, I found that while everyone affirmed their willingness, few were prepared to put in the necessary effort. Thus, I've shifted my approach. Now, I inquire about the most challenging tasks they’ve undertaken or significant advancements they’ve made recently.

Many individuals significantly underestimate the dedication, hard work, and sacrifices required to achieve remarkable results. The realm of sports offers a valuable lens into this, as it is one of the most analyzed high-performance environments. I highly recommend "The Cost of These Dreams" by Wright Thompson for its exceptional exploration of the struggles elite athletes endure on their path to success.

For most organizations, a more realistic motto might be: We aim to improve incrementally. The true essence of work is revealed through action rather than mere contemplation.

This is often the downfall of many initiatives aimed at change. People frequently express a desire for transformation but tend to avoid the actual work involved.

In one organization where I was involved, a team assessment was initiated. I strongly advised that they first determine how to utilize the assessment to foster improvement before rolling it out. Unfortunately, my suggestion was overlooked, and the belief was that "good management" would naturally facilitate the process.

Consequently, a year later, management's primary goal had shifted to persuading team members to complete the survey, as there was no follow-up on improvements stemming from the assessment. The reluctance to engage with the assessment was evident, largely due to the absence of tangible outcomes.

Chapter 2: Mastery as a Prerequisite for Success

A fundamental requirement for achieving exceptional work is a deep understanding of your craft.

This may seem obvious, especially in academia, yet it is often overlooked in industry settings. A manager aspiring to excel in their role must be well-versed in management principles.

Inquiring about the most recent management book read, the latest course taken, or how one continues to learn about management can reveal a lot about their potential.

The first video, “How To Do Great Work” by Paul Graham, delves into the essential mindset and strategies for achieving excellence in your endeavors.

The second video, “Steve Jobs: The Only Way to Do Great Work is to Love What You Do,” discusses the passion and commitment required to truly excel in your profession.