There’s a powerful quote from the legendary quarterback Bart Starr that I want you to carry with you throughout your lives: “Pursue perfection and catch excellence.” Starr, known for his exceptional leadership both on and off the football field, understood that true greatness comes from setting the highest standards for oneself. He didn’t just aim to win games; he aimed for perfection in every play, every practice, and every aspect of his preparation. This relentless pursuit of the highest standard is what led him and his team to numerous championships and cemented his place in history.

Starr’s philosophy aligns beautifully with the wisdom found in Galatians 6:9, which tells us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This verse reminds us that excellence isn’t just about immediate results; it’s about consistent effort and perseverance, trusting that our hard work will eventually bear fruit.

These words encapsulate a philosophy that can transform every aspect of your life, from your career to your relationships, and even the smallest tasks you undertake each day. They challenge us to aim higher, push harder, and never settle for mediocrity.

Now, you might be thinking, “But Pop, perfection is impossible!” And you’re right. True perfection is an ideal that’s always just out of reach. But here’s the secret: it’s not about actually achieving perfection. It’s about the relentless pursuit of it that leads us to excellence.

In your careers, this mindset can set you apart. It’s not about being a workaholic or burning yourself out. It’s about approaching each task, each project, each interaction with a commitment to doing your absolute best. When you write a report, don’t just aim to get it done; aim to write the best report possible. When you’re solving a problem, don’t settle for the first solution that comes to mind; push yourself to find the optimal solution.

I remember when I was starting out in business. I wasn’t content with just meeting expectations; I always tried to exceed them. Whether it was preparing for a meeting, analyzing data, or presenting ideas, I approached each task as if it were the most important thing I’d ever do. Did I always achieve perfection? Of course not. But by aiming for it, I often achieved excellence, and that made all the difference in my career.

But this philosophy isn’t just for your professional life. It applies just as much to your relationships. In your friendships, your romantic partnerships, and your family bonds, strive to be the best friend, partner, sibling, or child you can be. Listen actively, show empathy, be reliable, and always try to bring out the best in others. Perfect relationships don’t exist, but by continually working to improve and strengthen your connections, you can build extraordinary, fulfilling relationships.

Your grandmother Cookie and I have been married for many years (37 as of this writing), and we’ve always strived to be the best partners we can be for each other. We’ve worked on our communication, supported each other’s dreams, and tried to show love and kindness every day (Cookie is way better at this than me!). It’s this constant effort towards “perfection” that has resulted in a beautiful, lasting partnership.

Even in the small, everyday tasks of life, this mindset can make a big difference. When you’re making your bed in the morning, don’t just throw the covers up haphazardly. Take an extra minute to do it well. When you’re washing dishes, don’t leave any spots. When you’re studying for a test, don’t just memorize enough to pass; aim to fully understand the material.

These might seem like insignificant things, but they add up. They shape your character and your habits. They train you to always give your best effort, no matter how small the task. And believe me, people notice. Excellence in the little things often leads to opportunities for excellence in the big things.

Remember, pursuing perfection isn’t about being perfect. It’s not about beating yourself up when you fall short. It’s about setting high standards for yourself and constantly striving to meet them. It’s about never being satisfied with “good enough” when you know you’re capable of better.

Will you achieve perfection in everything you do? No, and that’s okay. But in the pursuit of it, you’ll catch excellence. You’ll surprise yourself with what you’re capable of. You’ll stand out in a world where many people are content with mediocrity.

So kiddos whatever you do in life, pursue it with all your heart and all your effort. Aim for the stars, and you might just land on the moon. Set your sights on perfection, and excellence will follow.

Remember Bart Starr’s words, and make them your own: “Pursue perfection and catch excellence.” Let this be your guiding principle, in your careers, your relationships, and in all the small moments that make up your days. Excellence is not an act, but a habit. Make it yours.