This quote essentially highlights the importance of maintaining high standards within a team or an organization. An “A-plus player” refers to someone who performs at an exceptional level, someone who is not just competent but excels in their role. These individuals are not only driven by their own personal success but also the success of their team or organization. They thrive in an environment where everyone is equally committed to excellence and find it demoralizing when mediocrity is tolerated.

The underlying principle here is that high performers are motivated by the opportunity to work with others who share their commitment to excellence. They want to be challenged, to learn, and to grow. When they are surrounded by others who are content with “B work” or average performance, it can be frustrating and demotivating. They might feel like they’re carrying an unfair share of the load, or that their efforts to go above and beyond are not valued.

In today’s competitive world, this idea is more relevant than ever. Companies that want to stay ahead need to foster a culture of excellence, where high performance is the norm rather than the exception. This doesn’t mean expecting employees to work long hours or pushing them to burnout. It means creating an environment where people are encouraged to do their best work, where they’re given the tools and support they need to excel, and where mediocrity is not tolerated.

On a personal level, this quote can be a reminder to strive for excellence in everything we do. It encourages us to surround ourselves with people who inspire us, challenge us, and push us to be better. It’s about recognizing that we are the average of the people we spend the most time with, and choosing to spend time with those who lift us up rather than drag us down. It’s about not settling for “B work” in our own lives, and not tolerating it in the people around us.