Want to be excellent at work? Get this PHD first

Jiddu Krishnamurti, renowned philosopher, speaker and writer, once said, "A belief is purely an individual matter, and you cannot and must not organise it." I am sure you agree, and yet this is exactly what everyone throughout the world is attempting to do.

For instance, since time immemorial there have existed pre-defined metrics that must be adhered to in order to be deemed successful by society. Over the years, these have evolved with minor alterations, but the crux pretty much remains the same. When you think of 'success', the first two words that come to your mind are 'money' and 'fame'. 'Sense of well-being' and 'contentment' come as an after-thought and in some cases, don't come at all.

This irrevocably skewed definition of 'success' has many falling prey to these two self-imposed diktats:

Comparison
An excellent source of growth and motivation, comparison is actually a double- edged sword. On the one hand, it encourages you to step up your game. And on the other, it deceives you into judging your own worth based on another's achievements. We have all grown up with the adage that 'you are either number one or nobody'. This incessant need to always 'be on top' pushes us to race after degrees, dream jobs and promotions, fast cars, palatial houses and more. And in our earnest desire to beat the competition, we inadvertently lose track of what actually defines us (core values, interests, talents, dreams, personal goals, etc.), waste precious time and energy, experience self-doubt and eventually become a victim of chronic stress and depression.

Conformity
The "Everyone's doing it, therefore it must be good." is another philosophy we feel obliged to follow to the T. Whether it is our education - stick to the currently lucrative courses/subjects to do masters in, professional status - push yourself to climb up the corporate ladder as designation and income matter, clothes - wear whatever is the latest in fashion, even likes and dislikes, there is a constant pressure to "fit in". Ironically, most of the world's greatest inventors, entrepreneurs, achievers are great because they chose to be different, follow their heart and live their dreams.

Truth be told, there are no set barometers of success. Success is a word and an idea, particularly one that is highly subjective. We as individuals are unique, gifted with our own distinctive set of capabilities, desires, thoughts and goals. What true success means to one of us may not mean the same to another.


We want to be successful in whatever we do. But is there an easy code for that? (Image: BCCL)

What we really need to do is focus on achieving excellence in what we do, by paying heed to our: -

- Passion, Hunger and Drive (PHD): If you truly believe in yourself and what you do, you will always give it your 100%, no matter the obstacles. Whether it is ensuring that you are up-to-date with the latest knowledge or putting in place the right professional network, you will strive to become the best version of yourself.

- Continuous self-improvement: When accomplishing excellence becomes the end goal, the focus shifts to making incremental improvements in your technique, expertise, etc. This progress, however miniscule gives you a true sense of satisfaction and fulfilment that brings enthusiasm and purpose to your days. And that's all that really matters.

Deepak Chopra, world renowned physician, New York Times best-selling author and wellness expert emphasises the need to be process oriented, rather than outcome-oriented. Success he says, 'is but a by-product of excellence.'

Simply put, let go of your obsession about the end result. Instead focus on investing in yourself, enjoy the learning experience and put your best forward in any endeavour you wish to pursue. And most importantly believe in yourself because it's only a matter of time before perseverance gives way to success, your definition of success!