"What is greatness?"
"What does greatness mean to you?"
I've lost count of how many times I've asked myself this question.
The reason why it took me a while to articulate my response is because, the end goal is to share it with you.
Having an idea in your head is one thing. Expressing it on paper or, in this case, your device is an entirely different thing.
I wanted to share my sincere view about true greatness without trying to be politically correct or "deep, sir".
I believe in simple truths. However there is a thin line between simplifying a concept and watering it down, thereby making it lose its pure essence.
With that in mind, here is my answer in its purest form.
True greatness is living for others, in others, and through others.
Let me explain.
As you can see from the simple definition, there are three parts to greatness.
We are all familiar with the first part. As a matter of fact, that is the politically correct definition we see all the time. Let's be honest; we say them, too.
"I just want to serve the world."
"I started this business because my heart aches for my people."
"I'm going into this position because I can't bear seeing you suffer."
"Please let me help you do it because I love you. Just pay for the equipment"
We've seen it over and over again. It is not new. We all have our versions of it. We have all learnt to create a mantra for ourselves.
Something light.
Something nice to the ears.
As far as I'm concerned, this is just one part of greatness. Whether people are sincere with this approach to life or not, it is still one part. Very important part, but one part nonetheless.
I don't have to tell you.
33% is still very poor in Academics. In life, it is even poorer. Your head is barely out of the water. There is so much more to greatness. And we shall explore it together.
...To be continued.
SIMPLIFYING GREATNESS was written by Tope Fabusola. He's the CEO of The Firebrand.