Excellence In Motion
A few weeks ago, I stood (and danced) in the warmth of an early summer evening at the opening rock concert of a stunning new outdoor amphitheater at Black River Landing in Lorain, Ohio.
The sky was turning deep blue. Newly planted grass softened the landscape with its fresh scent. Lake Erie stretched into the distance, while the Black River curved quietly nearby.
Families gathered. Children played. Music brought the community together.
As I looked around, I felt a deep sense of pride.
My husband Robert designed it.
Robert is an award-winning architect. Watching this project come to life made me reflect on what I have learned from him about excellence.
What I've Learned about Excellence
1. Excellence means holding an uncompromising standard.
Robert pays painstaking attention to design details. Sometimes I would ask, "Does the client care or notice the difference?"
To that, he would reply, "Probably not; but I design to my standard of excellence.”
2. Excellence requires focus & passion.
Robert is known for modern minimalist design.
He says yes to projects that align with his focus & passion and no to those that don't.
The pursuit of excellence is often less about adding more and more about choosing less.
3. Excellence is never a solo achievement.
This amphitheater required architects, engineers, landscape designers, lighting specialists, construction teams, city & county leaders, and countless others.
Extraordinary collaboration is what brings a compelling vision to life.
4. Excellence serves something larger than ourselves.
The most inspiring part of this project is not the structure itself.
It is the purpose behind it.
To connect the lake, the river, and the community.
To create a place where people gather, celebrate, and feel part of something larger than themselves.
Reflection
As leaders, we often talk about performance, results, and achievement.
But excellence may be simpler than we think.
A clear standard.
A focus on our strengths and passion.
Collaboration with others.
And a purpose larger than ourselves.
Which of these feels most important to you and your team right now?
Excellence isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters -- with focus, passion, and others by your side.
