The Self-Reliant Entrepreneur

August 12Opposite Ends of the Same Stick

We must be something in order to do something, but we must also do something in order to be something. The best rule, I think, is this: If we find it hard to do good, then let us try to be good. If, on the other hand, we find it hard to be good, then let us try to do good. Being leads to doing, doing leads to being.

James Freeman Clarke—Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers (1895)

Today's passage reads a bit like a classic puzzle, but it might also define the meaning of entrepreneurial life.

Clarke, like so many writers of the era, boldly suggested that success was both defined and achieved by who you are being, not what you are doing. Of course, again the puzzling part: what you are doing then becomes so much more useful to others in spite of your efforts that success comes without even trying. No matter where you point it, doing and being are opposite ends of the same stick.

Focus on being great and you'll improve your chances of doing great. Do great and you'll come to be great.

Challenge Question

1. Are you currently doing great or being great? How do you know the difference?