Do Your Best

How many times has someone said to you, “Do your best?” And how many times have you said the same thing to others? When you’re on the receiving end of that directive, only you can define what doing your best means. Often, depending on the time and your circumstances, doing your best today may be different than what your best was in the past. 

But what about those bidding you to do your best? Do they see your best as static instead of fluid? What preconceived ideas do they have about what your best is? Do they define a higher standard of behavior for you and hold you to expectations you may not be able to deliver right now? 

 

The disconnect between expectations and reality can inadvertently lead to stress and disappointment for both the receiver and sender of the request. Do your best. So, the question becomes, when it comes to doing your best, what’s the best thing to do? 

 

Start by heeding the wisdom of running legend George Sheehan, who said, “The answer to the big questions in running is the same as the answer to the big questions in life: do the best with what you’ve got.” Then embrace the idea that it’s okay for your best to change over time. Once you’ve done that, communicate your limitations to those who encourage you to do your best. Honest conversations can help bridge the gap between their expectations and your reality, fostering understanding and support.

 

Pursuing your best should be a source of personal growth, not pressure or disappointment. It’s a journey, not a destination. As you navigate life’s challenges, remember that your best is not a static benchmark. It’s a flexible and ever-evolving path to self-improvement. The best thing to do is to be true to yourself and welcome the journey of discovering your ever-changing best.

 

Now, go out there today and do your best!