“The only way to avoid mediocrity is to relentlessly pursue excellence in everything you do.” – Coach Nick Saban
There’s a stark contrast between those who merely tread water and those who dive headfirst into the deep end. It’s the difference between being good and great, between settling for mediocrity and striving for excellence. Why is it that people choose to not take the plunge? I’m not just speaking to the entrepreneurs of the world. I’m talking about any areas of your life and leadership! Both personal and professional. Is it that people just don’t know where to focus? I’m sure that plays a part. Is it fear? Absolutely! Is it insecurity? Yep! Is it comfort? Of course. The reasons why people fail to go all in to pursue their dreams checks many boxes.
I learned firsthand the power of being “all in” with my work. Atlas Outdoor started as sort of a side gig. I first started cutting grass and doing landscaping for friends and neighbors. As we began to gain traction, the ole “side hustle” was becoming 6-7 evenings and every weekend of work. When we had our first child, there was no way I was going to be able to continue to work the hours the demand was creating and be a present dad for her! Not to mention leading in my household and also being a good husband to my wife! If my work was ever going to become anything of greatness, I needed to go “All In”. In 2011, I quit my day job and jumped in head-first! The journey has never been one of ease, but it would never be where it is today had I not quit trying to be the dog chasing two rabbits!
Let’s park at the fear of failing today. It’s natural to fear failure. After all, it’s human instinct to seek security and avoid risk. I’ll be vulnerable here as we are all friends right? The reason I let Atlas be secondary to my day job for the years I did was because I knew I had a paycheck coming in consistently. The reason most leaders don’t take themselves off the truck doing the work is because they are afraid to give up what they are comfortable doing which is being out doing the work! They are afraid of being the CEO of their life, vs. being a technician. This fear can be a double-edged sword, especially when coupled with the safety net of a backup plan. While having a Plan B might offer temporary comfort, it often becomes a crutch, preventing individuals from fully committing to their goals. Think of a tightrope walker with a safety net below; the presence of the net might ease their anxiety, but it also diminishes their focus and determination.
Wholehearted commitment to anything requires bold courage. The courage to take risks, step outside your comfort zone, and confront the unknown. It’s about embracing uncertainty and facing challenges head-on, knowing that growth and innovation lie on the other side of fear. Leaders who are unwilling to settle for the status quo are unafraid to push boundaries, challenge conventions, and chart new territories. As Helen Keller once said, “Security is mostly a superstition. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”
Are you going to make mistakes, absolutely! Are you going to upset some people in your pursuit, you’re darn skippy you will. But I can assure you that you’ll face more regret someday knowing you never pushed yourself past your comfort zone than you will by playing it safe your whole life.
Remember this my amigos, going ALL IN with your life and leadership means there are no shortcuts or easy paths. It requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to sacrifice your comfort! So, I urge you to ask yourself: Are you playing it safe, or are you daring to be great? The choice is yours, but remember, true fulfillment and success awaits those who are willing to take the leap of faith and commit wholeheartedly to their vision.