“How you do anything is how you do everything.” Emma Grede
Why Humans Always Strive for Growth and Progress
One of the most fascinating things about us humans is our intrinsic desire for progress and personal growth. We get bored, we crave change, and we aspire to something bigger and better—that drive is what makes us who we are.
There’s an inherent restlessness in most of us. As soon as we achieve one goal, we’re already chasing the next. That’s why bookstores are filled with titles about self-improvement, fulfillment, and living in the moment.
I turned 50 earlier this year, and many of my friends are reaching this milestone too. Turning 50 can bring mixed emotions. For some, it’s a painful reckoning with unmet goals. For others, it’s a joyful celebration of a life well-lived. For almost all of us, it’s an invitation to reflect: What do I want next? What goals will shape the years ahead?
Some of us begin to think about our legacy and impact on the world. We might feel pressure to change, to be more intentional with our time and energy. Personally, the past few years have been transformative. I’ve focused on learning, growing, and setting clearer priorities and boundaries. And I can see how this process is reshaping my life.
How to Find Courage to Change Your Life
It’s difficult to face the mirror and acknowledge the parts of our lives that aren’t working. Sometimes a big change is necessary. That realization can be scary—but also empowering.
One day, you simply grow tired of your own excuses. You stop waiting to “feel ready” and you take action. Courage and mindset shifts are what drive transformation.
You have no idea what you’re capable of until you try. Through consistent action and self-improvement, you can achieve extraordinary things.
Why Striving for Excellence Leads to Success
Emma Grede, the successful entrepreneur, has many insightful ideas on excellence and leading a purposeful life. Here I’ll be sharing some of her advice.
Excellence begins with wanting more from life. You need something to strive for—something that excites you, motivates you, and keeps you moving forward. If you’re unsure what that is, start with yourself. Ask: How can I make myself better? How do I build better habits? When you focus on growth, your goals reveal themselves.
Excellence is about effort, consistency, and a growth mindset. It means believing that everything you do matters—to who you are, and to how you’re perceived.
Life unfolds in chapters. Be excellent at whatever chapter you’re in now, and it will lead you to the next one.
ask yourself: What would it look like to wake up tomorrow and start the day with excellence? What if someone paid you a million dollars just to make your bed perfectly and begin your day with purpose? That mindset shift alone changes your energy, and people will notice.
And when things don’t work out, remember—it’s not about you. The project failed, not you. Maybe it wasn’t the right time, or it wasn’t meant for you. Keep going. Speak to yourself with kindness and encouragement. That too is a form of excellence.
Stop Limiting Yourself: Unlock Your Full Potential
There are no limits to what you can create. Dream big, set ambitious goals, and build habits that lead to lasting success. Bet on yourself—even when others doubt you.
But remember: dreams must be paired with hard work.
Vision + consistent effort = real success.
Discipline matters more than shortcuts. Overnight success is a myth. Most success comes from doing the simple, obvious, effective things consistently for a long time. That’s how dreams turn into reality.
Progress vs. Perfection: Why Excellence Matters More
Aim to be better today than you were yesterday. Don’t compare yourself to others—it’s you against you.
Perfectionism is about external approval: worrying about what others think. Excellence is internal: putting in the best effort you can for yourself.
Ask yourself: What is my version of excellence? What feels good enough for me? The goal is steady improvement, not flawlessness.
How to Rewrite Your Life Story with Purpose
It’s easy to get stuck in blame, resentment, or anger over unfair circumstances. But ask yourself: Is this serving me? If not, let it go.
Accept reality as it is—but don’t let it hold you back. Use what’s inside you to keep moving forward.
Daily Habits for Excellence and Growth
- Think about the kind of person you want to become.
- Take responsibility for your life.
- Manage your thoughts carefully.
When you live with intention and consistency, your life begins to align. You create purpose, and the dream you hold for yourself gradually becomes reality.
“Greatness is just good, repeated.” – Steven Bartlett
What does living with excellence mean to you, and what’s one way you can practice it in your daily life? Write in the comments. I’m excited to read your thoughts.
Thank you for reading. see you next week.
With love,
Silvia
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