This quote suggests that your current income level is a direct reflection of your personal standards and expectations, rather than external factors such as the industry you work in or the state of the economy. In essence, it implies that if you set high standards for yourself and strive to achieve them, your income will likely increase accordingly.
The idea here is that your personal standards act as a self-imposed barometer of success. If you set them low, you’ll be content with lower earnings. But if you set them high, you’ll push yourself to achieve more, thereby increasing your earning potential. This concept is tied to the belief in personal responsibility and the power of self-determination.
The quote also challenges the common perception that external factors, like the industry or the economy, are the primary determinants of one’s income. While these factors can certainly influence income levels, this quote posits that personal standards and expectations have a more significant impact.
Applying this idea in today’s world or in personal development involves setting high standards for oneself and then working diligently to meet those standards. For instance, if you’re in a job where you’re earning less than you desire, instead of blaming the industry or the economy, you could look inward. Are your standards and expectations aligned with your income goals? If not, you might need to raise them.
This could mean pursuing further education or training, seeking a higher-paying job, starting a side hustle, or even launching your own business. By setting higher standards, you’re effectively pushing your boundaries, which could lead to personal growth and higher income.
This quote, therefore, serves as a call to action to take control of one’s financial destiny. It encourages a proactive approach to income generation and personal development, emphasizing the power of individual agency over external circumstances. It suggests that raising one’s standards and striving for excellence is a viable path to increasing one’s income, regardless of the industry or economic context.
