"如果我们不制定更高的文学和艺术标准，我们的职业怎么能希望生存下来？"

Setting higher literary and artistic standards is crucial for the survival and development of any profession. At its core, this idea suggests that by continually raising the bar in terms of quality and creativity, a field can remain relevant, respected, and innovative. When practitioners of a particular discipline push themselves to improve and aspire to greater heights, it not only elevates individual contributions but also enhances the collective standing of the profession.

Take the world of journalism, for example. Imagine the early 20th century, a time when sensationalism often triumphed over truth. Yellow journalism was rampant, with newspapers prioritizing eye-catching headlines over accurate reporting. The credibility of journalism was at stake. In response, a movement emerged that emphasized higher journalistic standards—accuracy, integrity, and thorough investigation became paramount. Figures like Joseph Pulitzer championed these values, leading to the establishment of journalism schools and the Pulitzer Prize, which honored excellence in the field. This shift didn't just save journalism from the brink of irrelevance; it transformed it into a respected pillar of society.

Let's look at a practical example to see this in action. Think of the culinary world. Chefs are constantly experimenting, learning, and setting new trends. If they settle for mediocrity, the food scene stagnates. But when they aim for higher standards—innovating with new ingredients, perfecting techniques, or presenting dishes in novel ways—the entire industry thrives. Take the rise of molecular gastronomy, led by chefs like Ferran Adrià. By blending science and art, they revolutionized the culinary landscape, setting a new benchmark for creativity and precision in cooking.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life or profession? Start by setting personal goals that challenge you. Don't just aim to meet the current standards—strive to exceed them. Seek out mentors or role models who exemplify excellence and learn from their approach. Continuously educate yourself; whether through formal courses, workshops, or simply reading and observing. Embrace feedback, even the tough kind, as it's often the most valuable for growth.

Imagine you're an aspiring writer. You could write a decent novel and be done with it. Or, you could push yourself to write a truly great one. This means revising drafts, seeking constructive criticism, and perhaps most importantly, reading widely and critically. Notice what works and what doesn't in others' writing. Then, apply those lessons to your own work. The process might be grueling, but the end result—a novel that not only tells a story but does so with exceptional artistry—will be worth it.

Picture this: you're at a coffee shop, chatting with a friend about your latest project. You mention how you're trying to bring something fresh and impactful to your field. Your friend nods, sipping their latte, and says, "It's like when you try to make the best cup of coffee, right? You could just go through the motions, but then, who'd remember it? But if you perfect each step, from choosing the beans to the grind size, you create something memorable." That's the essence of setting higher standards. It's not just about being good—it's about striving to be exceptional, and in doing so, ensuring the vitality and future of your passion, your profession, and ultimately, your legacy.