I’ve heard the phrase used as a complaint more than once: “The culture of effort has been lost.”
To which I always respond: “Fortunately! As long as the culture of excellence isn’t lost…”
Because sometimes we confuse these two concepts.
The culture of excellence focuses on achieving the highest standards and results, while the culture of effort celebrates the process and dedication—but without necessarily focusing on the outcome.
Certainly, constant effort and dedication are important to achieve excellence (let’s recall Malcolm Gladwell’s 10,000-hour rule, which says someone can master something if they dedicate at least that amount of time to it). But there are also other factors that can influence the final result, such as natural or acquired ability, brilliance, luck, and external circumstances.
What matters is having an improvement-oriented mindset throughout the process to achieve the best possible outcomes. And that requires effort—among other things.
In fact, what comes to mind is the quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln:
“If I had eight hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend six sharpening the axe.”
In other words, focus on skill and efficient tools.
A culture of excellence focuses not only on effort, but also on other key aspects needed to achieve the best possible results. This includes having a clear vision and strategic plan, seeking feedback and learning from mistakes, maintaining a mindset of continuous learning, surrounding oneself with inspiring people, and finding a balance between work and personal life.
Experience often enables excellence.
Training alone isn’t enough—it requires practice to build experience.
Instead of focusing exclusively on working hard, a culture of excellence seeks to work smart and use effective ways to achieve long-term goals. Additionally, this culture values creativity, innovation, and the flexibility to adapt to changes and challenges that may arise.
An archer has to shoot many arrows to hit the target,
but they also need to know their bow, the arrows they use, usually have a coach, need to rest to stay fresh, and occasionally, even a gust of wind may be in their favor.
And you?
Are you the type to put in the hours—or to sharpen the axe?