Striving for Dynamic Personal Excellence: A Perspective on 'Fighting Poverty' Through the Lens of Aristotle !

"Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives." Aristotle

Ancient Echoes: Aristotle's Wisdom Endures Two Millennia Onward

I've always been a fan of Aristotle, the great philosopher from world history whose ideas I find absolutely fascinating! Even today, his books offer a wonderful opportunity for anyone who’s curious to learn more. And it’s not just enjoyable – it’s fascinating! The call he made 2000 years ago is still the perfect prescription for many aspects of life today.

Aristotle's Concept of Excellence:

One of the most incredible concepts that Aristotle developed during his time, or put forward for the first time, is undoubtedly 'Excellence'! Each ability of human beings is at a primitive level, and it's up to us to perfect it through regular and disciplined practice! James O'Toole makes a compelling case in his interesting book, "Creating the Good Life," that achieving perfection is one's greatest virtue and should be pursued throughout life.

Just as the fastest runner of the horse, the tallest of the giraffes, and the strongest of the lions are respected and accepted, the most admirable human quality is the ability to reason. It's through reasoning that humans can think and build in a cause-and-effect relationship, setting them apart from other living creatures. Reasoning and regular disciplined practices are the keys on the way of excellence.

Application in Modern Life:

It’s up to us to keep sharpening our abilities and talents throughout our lives and achieve excellence! All other human abilities based on reasoning have the incredible capacity to reach perfection! Other physical abilities are the same, but the reasoning is unique in that it makes humans different from other living creatures – and that's brilliant!

Fortunately for me, the course ‘Leadership and Excellence’ in the WMG The University of Warwick ‘Engineering Business Management’ master's programme shed a lot of light on this concept and broadened my horizons.

Dynamic Personal Development Around a Vision vs. Static:

One of the most exciting ideas I've had for a while is the idea of adapting a dynamic development process to a person's life, rather than a static development process. For instance, by simply saying "I will improve myself," you can create a comprehensive list of the skills you need to develop and then complete the training by putting them in order. Of course, as you can appreciate, how practical this will be is debatable.

On the other hand, I am absolutely blown away by the idea that it would be much more practical, much more realistic and much more productive if a person determined a vision to which they would devote themselves and build the training needs all around this vision rather than a list of static to-do-list without any broader vision.

They would determine a mission for themselves and define the training they needed by knowing the needs and difficulties that arise. It suddenly hit me! The Japanese call it Ikigai, the Easterners call it "The Purpose of the Dream (Gaye-i Hayal)", and the Romans call it Virtus. There are so many names for this amazing concept!

Similarly, as we strive to become the best version of ourselves, it's essential to define our ideals, visions, or goals that contribute to making the world a better place. It's an exhilarating journey! Once we've identified our vision, we must also determine the skills and capabilities needed to bring that vision to life. We would develop ourselves in this way!

As An example,

Let me illustrate with an example: my goal of combating global poverty. To accomplish this, I've selected project/program management—a field that not only encompasses diverse skill sets but also resonates deeply with my passions and abilities.

This is the tool I believe I can use to achieve my goal. I'm excited to get started on this amazing journey! Once we've got these two basic concepts nailed down, we'll be ready to dive into the world of learning and achieving at the same time!

Project management includes all about human relations, people management, leadership, oratory and negotiation, strategy crafting, technical skills, planning, financial management, team building, risk management, time management, technology, and any artificial intelligence or application that will make things easier and faster!

Furthermore, amidst the intensity of global engagement, I recognise the importance of indulging in hobbies that align with my core interests and provide relaxation. Whether it's diving, climbing, painting, or music, these activities serve as outlets for personal rejuvenation and fulfilment.

To Excellence as an End!

Yes, making the most of a life we know we only get once in a lifetime has occupied many thinkers for thousands of years. I have at least shared with you one of the ways to make the best use of it, which is to achieve perfection and the pleasure it gives is unparalleled! What are your ideas, your opinions, visions and goals?

Friend, don't merely drift with the current of life. Take charge, steer your own course, and lead your journey to its rightful destination.

Some other books of Aristotle for the curious;

• Politics (One of my bedside books. One of the best books I have ever read in my life)
• Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics (Describes the virtues and the balance to be achieved in them)
• The Athenian Constitution: Athenaion Politeia

There are also entertaining books on the behaviour of animals from which he draws conclusions.