Today I watched two School of Hard Knocks interviews, and both left me thinking about one thing: standards.

A billionaire in the car business was asked what shaped his career.

His answer was simple:

Under promise. Over deliver.

It sounds obvious, but think about how often we do the opposite.

We promise a client something by Friday because we want to impress them, then spend Thursday explaining why we need more time.

In IT and software, I have learned that trust is often built in small moments.

Tell someone, “I’ll have it in two days,” then deliver it in one.

Say you will fix the issue by 3 PM, then have it resolved by 1 PM.

You don't need to constantly tell people you're reliable. Your delivery tells them.

The second interview discussed two books: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill and The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck.

I haven't finished either yet, but both are now on my reading list.

From what was discussed, one explores how our thinking, goals, and persistence influence achievement. The other takes a harder look at discipline, responsibility, and accepting that life is difficult instead of always trying to avoid discomfort.

That distinction stayed with me.

Sometimes you don't need another motivational speech.

You need higher standards for what you say, what you do, and what you tolerate from yourself.

Funny how a few hours of listening can reset your perspective.

Which one should I read first?

#PersonalGrowth #Learning #Leadership