Aristotle on Excellence

There's an observation I keep returning to again and again. I've explained it before, but I'll bake fresh (and maybe explain it better this time):

Amateur musicians try to play in tune. So, on bad days, they play out of tune...and, on their best days, they're merely adequately in tune.

Professional musicians try to play super in tune. So, on bad days, they play in tune...and, on their best days, they're super in tune.

This applies absolutely everywhere. Once you watch for it, you'll see it wherever you go and whatever you do. Aspiration doesn't just affect results; it also caps them.

I think this is what Aristotle is leaning towards saying.


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