"If you want to be the best, you have to do things that other people aren't willing to do."

Being the best at something isn’t just about talent. It’s about doing what others won’t. It means putting in the extra time, going the extra mile, and pushing through when everyone else has given up. This idea speaks directly to the heart of dedication and perseverance.

Think about it. You're aiming to be the top in your field, right? It's not enough to just show up and do the bare minimum. You need to outwork, outthink, and outlast the competition. This concept has been echoed throughout history. Take Michael Jordan, for example. He wasn't just naturally gifted; he was the first one in the gym and the last one to leave. His willingness to practice longer and harder than anyone else is legendary. He didn’t just rely on his natural ability—he honed it relentlessly.

Now, let’s bring this down to earth with a real-life example. Imagine you’re in a small town with a modest bakery. Your dream is to make your bakery the best in the region. The competition is stiff, and everyone’s pretty good at what they do. But you decide to do something different. While other bakers close shop at 5 PM, you stay open later. You wake up at the crack of dawn to experiment with new recipes. You take classes to perfect your techniques, even when you're already tired and would rather relax. Your willingness to put in that extra effort starts to pay off. Customers notice the unique quality and variety of your pastries. Word spreads. Soon, your little bakery becomes renowned for its excellence—all because you were willing to do what others wouldn't.

So, how can you apply this wisdom to your own life? First, find your passion. What’s that one thing you want to be the best at? Once you’ve got it, dive in deep. Set your goals, but understand that reaching them isn’t just about what you do when it's easy or convenient. It's about what you do when it’s tough, when you’re tired, when no one else is watching.

Picture this: You're a student aiming to top your class. Your classmates study the recommended two hours a day. Instead, you push yourself to study for four. You form study groups, reach out to professors for extra guidance, and never shy away from extra assignments. It’s not easy. Sometimes, you might feel burned out. But, as exams roll around, your classmates struggle with concepts you’ve mastered through sheer persistence. Your grades begin to reflect your hard work.

So, here’s the takeaway: Being the best means embracing discomfort and pushing beyond the norm. It’s about embracing late nights and early mornings, tackling challenges head-on, and always looking for ways to improve. It’s not always glamorous. It’s often exhausting. But the rewards are immense. When you’re willing to do what others aren’t, you set yourself apart. You become the best version of yourself, and in the process, you achieve things you once thought were impossible.

Remember, excellence isn’t a stroke of luck—it’s a deliberate choice. And it’s a choice you can make every single day. So, think about what you want to be the best at and start doing the things that others won’t. Your future self will thank you.