“We don’t rise to the level of our expectations; we fall to the level of our training.” – Attributed to Archilochus, Greek soldier, circa 650 B.C.

One of the neat outcomes of these notes is that through the years of writing and reading them, we refine our joint understanding of how best to think, believe, and work together. So, colleagues often reach out to share a quote, confirm an understanding, or reveal an insight. I frequently share them.

Al Holland sent the quote above.  I’ve had the privilege of working with him for over 35 years.  Believe me when I tell you that much of what I believe and understand about business success, leadership, and organizations has come from experiences where Al has been present.

First, this quote doesn’t diminish expectations. They are powerful factors in success. They clarify destinations and goals, set standards, drive ambition, and identify important values.

But expectations remain mere thoughts until you back them up with work.  Effort.  Practice.  Learning.

You put your expectations to the test with your effort, not your thoughts.  You find out what you know and what you need to know.  You find out what you can do and what you cannot.

As expectations are tested, possibilities become realities.  Progress builds on progress.  Confidence grows as you understand that goals backed up by hard work are a repeatable process that yields results.

Whatever your expectations are, the world keeps coming at us.  The opportunities, the challenges, and the pressure are always present.

Archilochus reminds us that expectations get pushed aside in the press of daily events.  They may have helped in our preparation, but how we do today has everything to do with our training.

Our goal is to get better each day so our expectations can be fulfilled.  Be one who matches high expectations with an even greater desire to put in the work.

-Howe Q Wallace Jr