Quote from Andrew Carnegie on: Devoting 100% of your capabilities

1835-1919

The average person puts only 25% of his energy and ability into his work. The world takes off its hat to those who put in more than 50% of their capacity, and stands on its head for those few and far between souls who devote 100%. – Andrew Carnegie

To be 100% devoted requires more than finishing everything on a to do list. True, these lists can be loaded. For some though, it may be nothing more than “busy work”. Without 100% of your effort, it could build nothing more than a reputation for looking good.

Those truly devoted will do whatever it takes to fulfill their goal. Before action is taken however, it must be preceded by

reflective thought. With that your thoughts can be organized into an end goal, dictating your actions and character. 

People who are 100% devoted are less concerned with looking good. They are committed to a vision that has already been accomplished in their minds. For them, it is just a matter of bringing it into reality.

Truly devoted people know they need time, action, and other people to support them. Time requires patience and perseverance to the end. Actions are the application of goal-oriented thoughts. To have others support you means you are big enough to know that you can’t know or do it all.

Standing at 5’ 3”, Andrew Carnegie was not a big man. Nevertheless, he was a titan. He built the greatest steel company of his time, yet knew almost nothing about what was needed to make, sell or market steel. He did, however, know how to surround himself with people who knew how to do those things.

Before you pull out your to do list and pontificate to the world that you are 100% dedicated, think about what you want to accomplish. Are you taking the best actions to get what you need? Do you have the patience to handle unexpected delays and problems? Are you big enough to let others help you? More importantly, do you possess the character to fulfill your ultimate purpose in life?

If not, it would be wise to take a step back and do an inventory of yourself. Listen to your thoughts, especially after success or failure. Those thoughts will provide insight into your true devotion.