Do You Want to Be Bigger or Better?
As we set goals and envision the future, a critical question arises: Are we more focused on getting bigger or getting better? While the allure of bigger—a larger home, a higher-paying job, or a rapidly expanding business—is undeniably tempting, it often distracts us from the more meaningful pursuit of becoming better. Let’s explore why the obsession with “bigger” can lead to problems, and how prioritizing “better” paves the way for lasting success and fulfillment.
Table of Contents
The Pitfalls of Pursuing Bigger
Bigger Houses but Broken Homes
Many of us dream of upgrading to a bigger house, yet fail to cultivate a better home. Without addressing underlying dysfunction or fostering love and connection, we simply end up with larger mortgages, more rooms to clean, and more things to buy—but no greater happiness. Bigger doesn’t fix the problems we bring with us.
Bigger Jobs, Bigger Problems
Landing a bigger job often comes with bigger challenges. The excitement of a new role fades when we face increased stress, larger egos to manage, and an overwhelming workload. Sometimes, we realize too late that the simplicity and satisfaction of our previous position were more fulfilling.
Bigger Businesses, Diminished Quality
Rapid business growth might seem like a dream, but scaling too quickly can strain infrastructure. This often results in diminished quality, unmet demand, and damaged reputations. Bigger sales numbers mean little if they compromise the very foundation of your success.
Why Better Always Wins
Better Requires Self-Improvement
Becoming better starts with knowing yourself and committing to continuous self-improvement. It’s about enhancing how you think, act, and behave so you’re prepared to handle any challenge.
Better Focuses on Quality and Value
When we prioritize better, we emphasize producing quality work, adding value, and doing things the right way. This mindset fosters trust, loyalty, and long-term success.
Better Is Selfless
Unlike the selfish pursuit of bigger, striving to be better often involves helping others succeed. It’s about building communities, developing people, and creating a positive impact that goes beyond personal gain.
Better Emphasizes the Process
Greatness is rooted in the process, not just the outcome. By focusing on incremental improvement, we maximize our potential and position ourselves for sustainable success.
Examples of Greatness Through Better
Consider some of the world’s most inspiring examples of greatness:
- Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant: These basketball legends didn’t fixate on scoring points; they obsessed over improving their skills. Their dedication to the craft resulted in unparalleled success.
- Rolls Royce: Known as the pinnacle of automotive excellence, Rolls Royce doesn’t focus on volume. They handcraft about 5,000 cars a year, emphasizing quality over quantity.
- Richard Branson: The Virgin Group founder’s mantra is simple: prioritize people first, customers second, and investors third. This focus on values has allowed his businesses to thrive across industries.
Greatness vs. Size: What Legacy Are You Building?
Bigger doesn’t always mean better. Empires like Rome and businesses like Napster or MySpace were massive at their peaks but failed to sustain greatness. In contrast, enduring greatness comes from values and principles that withstand the test of time. Leaders like Gandhi, Mother Teresa, and even historical figures like Jesus exemplify how a commitment to selflessness and improvement can create lasting legacies.
The Takeaway: Choose Greatness Over Size
When looking at your goals, ask yourself: Are you striving to be big, or are you striving to be great? True greatness prioritizes betterment over size. It’s about building relationships, creating quality, and leaving a meaningful impact. The rewards—whether financial, personal, or societal—become a natural byproduct of this pursuit.
So, the next time you feel tempted by the shininess of “bigger,” remember that bigger isn’t always better. Focus on getting better, and you’ll build something great that stands the test of time.