This quote captures the essence of dedication, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. It suggests that in the realm of a standard 40-hour workweek, competition is fierce because everyone is expected to put in that much time. However, the real differentiation and competitive edge lie in what one does beyond those 40 hours.
The quote is essentially a commentary on the concept of ‘going the extra mile.’ The ‘stiff competition’ during the 40 hours represents the standard expectations, the bare minimum that everyone is doing. But it’s what happens after that, the extra effort, the additional hours that one invests in honing their skills, learning, and growing, that sets them apart from the rest. There is ‘very little competition’ here because not everyone is willing to put in that extra effort.
In today’s world, this quote is more relevant than ever. In an age where everyone has access to the same information and resources, it’s not about what you have but what you do with what you have that makes the difference. It’s about the extra hours you put into mastering your craft, the additional effort you make to learn and grow, the extra mile you go to achieve your goals.
In terms of personal development, this quote encourages individuals to push their boundaries and not be content with just meeting the standard expectations. It highlights the importance of continuous learning, perseverance, and hard work. It suggests that if you want to stand out, if you want to be the best, you need to do more than what’s expected of you. You need to invest in yourself, in your skills and knowledge, beyond the standard 40 hours. It’s in this space, beyond the standard expectations, where true growth and excellence lie.
