"Excellence is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities."

The above anonymous quote was displayed prominently in an office, where, oddly enough, it seemed to attract very little attention. In any case, it has made enough of an impression to invite a look at these words of wisdom and see where these words may apply.

Living To Your Full Potential

When embarking on a road trip, unless a bout of aimless wandering around the country is the intent, it is essential to have a destination in mind and a map. Most people go through their life living someone else’s agenda. Stated differently, most people are on a path of aimless wandering – much like a traveler without a specific destination or map. It would be most valuable to look at different areas or aspects of life and ask “what is the intention here?” Consider the areas of family, business, spiritual practice, financial means, retirement, education, self-development, health, and social interaction. Most people, by their own admission, are not living fully actualized lives to their full potential. One main cause is a lack of clear and focused intention and direction.

 Without clear direction, “sincere effort” is impossible. Perhaps effort becomes sincere when a clear intention is established. Most people merely do an adequate job of trying whatever it is they’re doing because they are relatively uninspired by the task. The sincere effort stems from high intention. It flows naturally. Look at the areas of life where one is just “hanging out” or “clocking time.” This indicates insincere effort – and an opportunity to create a more focused and clear intention!

Introspection

As humans, we tend to see in purely linear “cause and effect” terms. “When given lemons, make lemonade” is certainly simplistic, but most people who are successful have had to become adept at taking some perceived challenge and using it as an opportunity for benefit, value, and profit. This comes from introspection, the counsel of open-minded and visionary people (of which there are few).

 Each of these steps, when applied, provides an opportunity, challenge, impact, and benefit. With these steps in mind, it is a matter of will to trade mediocrity for excellence.

Don’t Limit Yourself

Don't be afraid to do anything that can lead you to your goal. In reality, you should be more concerned about the opportunities you might miss out on if you don't try something. Opening yourself up to possibilities can allow you to notice things that could be crucial to your success.

Self-limiting beliefs can be quite rooted, therefore it may take some time to break them. Try not to get discouraged by this. Instead, practice acting on your new, positive self-beliefs every day.

Every day, try to take at least one small risk. You'll feel fantastic after doing something you're at least a little bit afraid of - and you'll be less nervous the following time.

Creativity

To reach excellence, you must be really interested in achieving your goals. Without these intense sentiments of enthusiasm, you will lack motivation and will abandon your project halfway through. Your passion for your goal inspires creativity, which in turn inspires even more enthusiasm. Your passion grows as you encourage yourself and others to take the necessary efforts to achieve your goals.

The goal of life is to develop and better yourself. You generate intensity to enhance your skills and talents in whatever you're concentrating on when you do this every day and get better at it.

Step out of Your Comfort Zone

You will continue to grow as long as you keep pushing outside of your comfort zone.  Staying in your comfort zone increases your likelihood of setting a goal that is simple to attain. This is among the factors that prevent most people from realizing their full potential. Nothing should be overlooked that could lead you to your goal. So fasten your seatbelt and push yourself to new limits.

Fear is one of the main causes of people not pushing themselves to their limits. Therefore, the first thing you must do is figure out how to face your fears. You don't have to make a big start. You can begin by taking baby steps, such as getting over worries and anxieties about your daily schedule, clothing, travel, and diet.

Remember 

Excellence is a mentality and a manner of life, not a goal. If you have faith in your capacity to rise above the competition and succeed, you'll soon find yourself at the top.

Despite the fact that you can't do everything at once, your actions should be in line with the goals you want to pursue and the person you want to develop into. You must continue carrying out your larger objectives day after day in small steps because these little victories add up to bigger ones.