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The only certain means of success is to render more and better service than is expected of you, no matter what the task may be. This is a habit followed by all successful people since the beginning of time. Therefore I saith the surest way to doom yourself to mediocrity is to perform only the work for which you are paid.
Og Mandino
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Success comes from exceeding expectations in service and effort.

This quote emphasizes that true success is achieved not by merely fulfilling one's job requirements, but by going above and beyond in the quality and quantity of service provided. It suggests that a commitment to exceptional performance and a proactive approach will distinguish successful individuals from those who are content with mediocrity.

Themes

SuccessServiceEffortMediocrityExpectations

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about career development.

More from Og Mandino

You learn things in adversity that you would never have discovered without trouble. There is always a seed of hope.
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Why do we continue to breed little minds who can find no recompense for their own failures other than to belittle and mock the talents, even the dress, of others? When will everyone realize that we are all equal in the eyes of God?
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Only God can shape a flower, but any foolish child can pull it to pieces.
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Each day is a special gift from God, and while life may not always be fair, you must never allow the pains, hurdles, and handicaps of the moment to poison your attitude and plans for yourself and your future.
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Obstacles are necessary for success because in selling, as in all careers of importance, victory comes only after many struggles and countless defeats. Yet each struggle, each defeat, sharpens your skills and strengths, your courage and your endurance, your ability and your confidence and thus each obstacle is a comrade-in-arms forcing you to become better... or quit. Each rebuff is an opportunity to move forward; turn away from them, avoid them, and you throw away your future.
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All the gold in the world cannot buy a dying man one more breath--so what does that make today worth?
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