What does "World-Class" Mean?

Not long ago, one of my colleagues asked me about a term I use a lot. She asked, what does "world-class" mean? In that moment, the question stumped me. This concept I referred to as world-class started as a literal pursuit. You see, I was a wrestling coach, and I was coaching my kids with the vision to one day win a world title. By the time they were 15, we had accomplished just that. We had won two world titles, including one against a Russian opponent after trailing at the halfway point in the match 4-0, only to score with seconds left on the clock, it was exhilarating and to this day the single greatest moment in my life! Of course, we're not all wrestlers or for that matter, athletes. So this concept of "world-class," had to mean more.

After providing a mediocre and not so "world-class" of an answer, I began to think deeply about this question. The concept is not just a term reserved for athletes or business magnates. It's a mindset, a way of life, and a commitment to excellence that anyone, in any field or walk of life, can adopt. These are the three pillars that form a more acceptable answer to my colleagues original question and this concept of being excellent.

Intrinsic Drive

This is the inner spark, the fire that burns within. It’s a deep-seated desire to be the best. Not for the accolades or the applause, but for oneself. It’s about proving to yourself that you can push boundaries, break barriers, and achieve what others might deem impossible. The will to persevere even when things get tough, to push oneself to the limits, and to never settle for mediocrity. Think of authors like J.K. Rowling, who faced numerous rejections before finally getting "Harry Potter" published. Her intrinsic drive wasn’t fueled by the potential for global acclaim, but by her genuine passion for the story she wanted to tell.

Discipline and Consistency

David Goggins' notion of "the great divide" perfectly encapsulates this. It's about showing up, day in and day out, regardless of how you feel, the circumstances, or the external pressures. This unwavering discipline, as Jocko Willink eloquently puts it, leads to freedom. It's the freedom of knowing you're giving your all, the freedom from regret, and the freedom to achieve unparalleled success. The dedication to maintain consistency in one's efforts, regardless of external factors, and the commitment to a vision even when immediate results might not be visible. Michael Jordan, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, was known for his unwavering discipline. He would often be the first one at practice and the last one to leave. His discipline wasn’t just about honing his skills, but about setting an example and creating a legacy of excellence.

Thought and Execution

It's one thing to have a vision, but it’s quite another to bring it to fruition. The world-class not only dream but they act. They strategize, problem-solve, and most importantly, execute. History has given us numerous examples like Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos. These visionaries didn’t just think; they did. Having the ability to envision a goal, devise a strategy, and then meticulously work towards achieving it. Elon Musk envisioned a future with sustainable energy. Instead of just dreaming about it, he founded companies like Tesla and SolarCity to create solutions. His vision of space colonization led to SpaceX. For Musk, every idea is paired with a concrete plan of action.

Building on these core principles, to truly be world-class requires an unyielding spirit, relentless dedication, and an agile mind. Being world-class isn't about a singular achievement; it’s a continuous journey of self-improvement. It’s not about competing with others but challenging oneself to be better than yesterday. From writers to scientists, from artists to entrepreneurs, every domain has its world-class personalities, and the common thread that binds them is their commitment to these principles. Being "world-class" is about rising above the ordinary through consistent effort, unwavering discipline, and innovative thinking. It’s about setting a standard of excellence for oneself and then tirelessly working to surpass it. In your pursuit of greatness, remind yourself of these principles. Let them be the guiding lights on your path to achieving your own version of "world gold."