Low Hanging Fruit

Something I've been thinking a lot about lately is the term: "picking the low hanging fruit." When we use that metaphor, we are referring to the easy targets, but not necessarily those that would be beneficial in the long run. Generally, when we refer to someone "picking the low hanging fruit" we are saying that they are only motivated by taking the path of least resistance. The end results are less than satisfying though because in order to break through the barriers of mediocrity and below, it is absolutely necessary to do things that are challenging... sometimes even terrifying.

In order to excel, we have to reach beyond what our current capabilities are and outside our comfort level and current level of expertise. In so doing, it is important to realize that occasional failure is inevitable, but these are only temporary setbacks. Successful people see failure merely as learning opportunities - and most successful people have failed more times than quitters have even tried. Thomas Edison saw each failure simply as a method that didn't work - or the process of elimination. This process of refinement is helpful in creating a better product. Any reputable manufacturer will prove their products by putting them through a series of rigorous tests and a final "burn-in" that will determine whether the product is ready to hit the market.

We all have a product to produce, even if that product is ourselves... our skills and knowledge... our personality... our demeanor... the things that make us who we are. Those who go through life only picking the low hanging fruit, will never experience excellence in any area because excellence is earned, not bestowed upon a person.

Now, in saying this, I would caution against being an overachiever. I have come to realize that always pushing for excellence can lead to discouragement, especially when the goals are too lofty. Just yesterday I was talking to someone who was experiencing discouragement because he felt he was never able to accomplish or finish anything. I had to point out the little successes that he was able to enjoy. At the time of talking to him, I was also coaching myself. In the past few months, it seems like I have been working and working, but with little or no visible successes. I came to realize that the little accomplishments are important too. In other words, we also need to enjoy the low hanging fruits along the way to tide us over until we experience the rush of the big accomplishments and these also help to moderate  post-euphoric letdown that almost always accompanies any great accomplishment. So, what I'm saying is don't just go for the high fruit either. Pick all of it! Enjoy all of the fruits available to you and never take anything for granted.