We are poor in character when we think getting by is a substitute for doing our best.
It is a wretched taste to be gratified with mediocrity when the excellent lies before us.
Only undertake what you can do in an excellent fashion. There are no prizes for average performance.
You can't take everything that is offered to you. I pass on a lot of stuff, because I truly believe that I will shine better if I could do it 200 percent rather than do it 80 percent and make it so-so.
Good is often the enemy of best.
When I do something, I don't want to be second best. That's the right way.
It is infinitely better to have a few good men than many indifferent ones.
Go for the gold: better one great column and some undistinguished ones than constant mediocrity.
Celebrate exceptional productivity, rather than raise average efforts.
