"賞賛に喜ばされることも非難に悲しまされることもなくただ自らの美徳や力を十分に理解するのが優れた人の特徴です"

Imagine you’re in a coffee shop, sipping on your favorite brew, and you hear someone say, "To not be swayed by what others think of you—whether it's praise or blame—but to really understand your own strengths and values, that's what makes a person truly excellent." That's the core idea. It's about staying true to yourself regardless of external validation or criticism.

Let’s rewind a bit. This kind of wisdom has been floating around for centuries. Philosophers like Socrates and Confucius emphasized self-knowledge as a path to a good life. They lived in times when honor and reputation were big deals, yet these thinkers suggested something radical: your worth shouldn't hinge on other people's opinions.

Now, let's ground this in a real-life example. Picture Serena Williams on the tennis court. She's one of the greatest athletes of all time. Throughout her career, she's faced heaps of praise and a ton of criticism. Some people sang her praises, calling her the queen of tennis. Others were quick to criticize her every move. But what sets her apart is how she remains unshaken. She knows her strengths—her power, her precision, her competitive spirit. She focuses on her game, not on what the commentators or the fans say. That's why she keeps winning.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? First, take time to really know yourself. What are you good at? What values drive you? Maybe you’re a great listener or a creative thinker. Recognize these qualities and hold onto them. When someone praises you, accept it graciously but don’t let it inflate your ego. When someone criticizes you, take it as an opportunity to learn if it's constructive but don’t let it tear you down.

Here’s a little story to drive the point home. Think about a young artist named Mia. She loves to paint. It's her passion and she's pretty good at it. Mia starts sharing her art on social media. At first, she gets a ton of likes and positive comments. She feels on top of the world. But then, a few negative comments roll in. People say her colors are too bold, her style too unconventional. Mia feels her confidence wobble.

But then, she remembers why she started painting in the first place. It wasn’t for the likes or the comments. It was because painting made her feel alive. She draws strength from that inner passion and continues to paint with her bold colors and unique style. Over time, she develops a loyal following who appreciates her work for what it is.

So, the next time you’re faced with praise or blame, take a step back. Remember your virtues and powers. They’re like the roots of a tree—if they’re strong and deep, you’ll stand firm no matter how hard the wind blows. Embrace a bit of Serena Williams' steadfastness and a dash of Mia’s unwavering passion. That’s the mark of true excellence.