Last week I mentioned that the language we use matters.

To ourselves and to others.

The Norm downplays this. They disregard the critical importance everyday vocabulary has on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Good thing you're an Outperformer!

Over a morning coffee I thought about the words I use in my everyday life that strike a chord in me. They define my unique viewpoint on the world.

Here are my top 5:

1. Standards

Goals? That's great.

Objectives? C'mon now.

Priorities? So cute.

Standards are, quite literally, what you STAND FOR.

They are commitments you refuse to compromise.

After all, the standard is the standard.

2. Capacity

Capacity is a person's physical and mental ability to do something.

Outperformers have an increased Capacity:

To handle adversity.

To put in long days.

To be present.

Every time you handle adversity, endure a long day, or summon your presence, you build Capacity. It is a continual process with no finish line.

3. Leverage

The Norm chases productivity.

Sadly, I've never seen someone on fire to be more productive.

Outperformers apply Leverage.

They seek to be a force multiplier.

Outperformers better Leverage their time, energy, and resources towards their ambitions. Because of this, they squeeze more out of the finite 24 / 7 / 365.

4. Character

One of my favorite quotes is from the movie, Invincible:

"Character is tested when you're up against it."

Character is not what you do.

It's the ethical, value-driven morality of WHO YOU ARE.

Who you are when it's not easy. When no one is watching. When you're in a slump.

When you're "up against it."

THAT is your test. It's when your true Character is revealed.

5. Agency

If you've seen me speak, you've seen the above Venn diagram. It's universally applicable.

You may think it's about focus. Or mindfulness.

It's really about Agency.

Agency takes ownership.

Agency believes you have influence.

Agency is not a victim—it is an active participant.

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Borrow these words if they resonate with you. You'll likely notice a difference in your Character.

I'll close by turning the Agency over to you:

Which words do you personally Leverage to Outperform in your life? Why?

If you have the Capacity, I'd love to hear from you. My Standard is to read every response.

See what I did there??? 😉

Keep Outperforming,