We spend too much time trying to be “good” when good is often merely average. To be great we must be different.

What's the meaning of this quote?

Quote Meaning: This quote challenges the notion of settling for mediocrity and encourages individuals to strive for greatness by embracing their uniqueness and individuality. It suggests that dedicating excessive time and effort to conforming to societal standards of "good" often results in achieving only average outcomes. To truly excel and achieve greatness, it is necessary to stand out and embrace what sets us apart.

The phrase "trying to be 'good'" refers to the tendency to conform to the norm or meet conventional expectations. It implies a desire to fit in and meet societal standards of acceptability. However, the quote asserts that settling for being merely "good" can limit our potential and prevent us from reaching extraordinary heights.

ELEVATE
Free Resource: A step-by-step blueprint to realize your dreams

To be truly great, the quote suggests that we must embrace our distinct qualities, strengths, and perspectives. It encourages us to embrace our uniqueness and showcase our individuality, rather than suppressing it in an effort to conform. By embracing our differences and bringing forth our authentic selves, we have the opportunity to make a lasting impact and achieve greatness in our endeavors.

The quote challenges individuals to break free from the constraints of conformity, fear of judgment, and the comfort of mediocrity. It invites us to explore our passions, embrace our individuality, and pursue paths less traveled. By stepping outside the boundaries of what is considered "good," we open ourselves up to new possibilities, innovative thinking, and the potential for exceptional achievements.

In essence, this quote serves as a reminder that greatness lies in embracing our uniqueness and embracing what makes us different. It urges us to transcend the limits of average and strive for excellence by daring to be different, pursuing our passions, and embracing our individuality with confidence and authenticity.

Who said the quote?

The quote “We spend too much time trying to be “good” when good is often merely average. To be great we must be different." was said in the book Barking Up the Wrong Tree (Summary) by Eric Barker. Eric Barker is a writer and researcher who explores the science of success and shares practical insights on how to achieve it.

***

* The editor of this interpretation made every effort to maintain information accuracy. This includes the source and any key ideas or meanings conveyed in it.

Reading is Smart. Applying is Smarter:  Apply

Chief Editor

Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.

 
Actualize Your Potential
Get my simplified process for realizing dreams (The exact process that enabled me to achieve 100 life goals in 10 years)
GET IT FREE:
Access my Start With WHY workbook for free, designed to guide you toward your purpose and the person you are meant to become
expert_advice
Align With Your Why
Elevate In Your Inbox
Get actionable insights, best practices, and wisdom you can apply — No hype, No fluff. Just practical ideas that might change your life.

Read The Art of Fully Living

There's no going back-once you embark on the journey you're meant to live, it's impossible to settle for anything less than your dreams.

Click here to learn more

Set Better Goals

Learn a better and smarter approach to setting and achieving goals. It's not just about what you want to achieve, but who you must become in the process.

Click here to learn more
Take The Free Test
Discover your areas for growth in just 5 minutes. Take the FREE self-evaluation test and pinpoint where to focus your efforts

Uplevel Your Game

Explore The Roadmaps

Access a self-paced online roadmap that turns big goals into realities, complete with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices from the world's best minds
Reclaim your freedom, escape 9-5, and live the life you were meant to live — A self-paced roadmap with daily study guides, actionable steps, and proven practices
Join The Accelerator
Join a 10-week, personalized immersion that will accelerate your goal-attainment, elevate you to your next level, and turn your big dreams into reality.
Learn More
Contact
Thanks for reading. It makes a difference. A portion of all proceeds from our endeavors supports entrepreneurs in the developing world. View Impact...