I am fascinated with greatness.

Ever since I can remember, I have been very interested in and have tried to learn from those who have experienced the highest levels of success in their chosen field over an extended period of time.

Some of my favorite “greats” of all-time include:

Michael Jordan – Basketball Player
Michael Jackson – Singer/Entertainer
Earth, Wind and Fire – Band
Og Mandino – Author
Rick Warren – Pastor
Jim Rohn – Inspirational Teacher
John Wooden – Coach

Unfortunately, on June 4, 2010, one of the “greats” that has had a tremendous impact on my life, John Wooden, passed away. He was just four months shy of celebrating his 100th birthday, and in this particular blog post, I would like to take a look at the definition of success that guided his life:

Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable.

I want to be successful.

I wholeheartedly desire to have the type of success, in every area of my life, that the great John Wooden speaks of.

But the truth is, there are certain areas of my life where, I am not making “the effort to become the best of which I am capable.” In these areas, I am slacking off and I am cutting corners. I am not taking full responsibility, and as a result, when it comes to that area of life, I do not have the peace of mind which Wooden speaks of.

Do you have any areas of your life in which you find yourself doing less than you are capable?

What Wooden reminds us in his definition of success is a truth that we have heard ever since we were young children:

Do Your Best.

In regards to your work -Do your best.
In regards to your health – Do your best.
In regards to your finances – Do your best.
In regards to your relationships – Do your best.
In regards to your responsibilities – Do your best.

I know the advice is simple, but in light of the many obstacles and difficulty that surround us all, not only is it more convicting and true than ever before, but it also is extremely encouraging.

Do Your Best.