For us, there is only the trying. The rest is not our business.
~T. S. EliotIn nearly every endeavor of human existence, it is abundantly clear that achievement is only to be gained at the cost of conscious, consistent effort.
Successful business people put meticulous detail into the operation of their businesses. Marathon runners daily extend themselves while keeping close track of times, distances, and the subtle (or not-so-subtle) messages their bodies send them. Repeatedly, we have told our children some version of the truth, "If you are not willing to pay your dues, you cannot expect success." The same is true with the most important of all human achievements: personal growth.
Yet when we look at the decimated effects of growing up in a dysfunctional environment, more often than not what we demand are instant rewards with little effort. Let us remember the marathon runner out slogging through the miles. We must be willing to work if we are to win this most important of all events.
Knowing I'm not responsible for outcomes focuses energy on the footwork for which I am responsible.
