"No deberíamos juzgar a las personas por su punto máximo de excelencia sino por la distancia que han recorrido desde el punto donde empezaron."

This quote highlights the idea that our true measure of someone’s character or achievements shouldn't be based on their most outstanding accomplishments alone. Instead, we should consider how far they've come from their starting point. It’s about acknowledging the journey, not just the destination.

Historically, this perspective reminds me of the stories of self-made individuals who start from nothing and build something incredible. Think about the classic rags-to-riches tales. These narratives resonate because they celebrate resilience and perseverance, values that can sometimes get overshadowed by the glitter of success.

Imagine a student who struggled with math all through high school. They'd always been at the bottom of the class, grappling with concepts that seemed easy for their peers. But this student didn't give up. They attended extra classes, stayed up late studying, sought help whenever they needed it. By the time they graduated, they were getting B's instead of D's. Now, if we were to compare them to a naturally gifted math whiz who aced every test without breaking a sweat, it might seem like the latter is more impressive. But hold on—when you consider the distance traveled, the struggling student’s progress is monumental. They fought against their limitations and made tremendous strides.

So how can we use this wisdom in our daily lives? The next time you’re evaluating someone’s achievements, take a moment to consider where they started. Whether it’s a colleague at work, a friend, or even yourself, look beyond the peaks. Recognize the valleys traversed and the mountains climbed. This shift in perspective can foster a deeper appreciation for effort and perseverance.

Let’s bring this home with a story. Picture two marathon runners. One is a seasoned athlete who’s been running since they could walk. The other only started training a year ago, having never been particularly athletic. Race day arrives. The seasoned runner finishes in the top ten—an impressive feat. The new runner, drenched in sweat and clearly exhausted, crosses the finish line much later. Who’s the real hero here? The seasoned athlete had their moment, but the new runner overcame a significant personal challenge. They pushed their limits and achieved something incredible relative to their starting point.

This concept also applies to personal growth. Think about your own life. Maybe you’re not the CEO of your company yet, but remember where you began. Reflect on the skills you've developed, the challenges you’ve overcome. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing ourselves to others, especially those who seem to have it all. But everyone’s journey is different, and the most meaningful progress is often personal.

In essence, we can’t fully appreciate someone's success without understanding their journey. It’s the distance traveled—the late nights, the stumbling blocks, the small victories along the way—that paints the fullest picture. So, next time you’re tempted to judge someone by their peak, pause and consider their path. You might find their true excellence lies in the steps they've taken, not just the heights they've reached.