Based on an article published by Shane Parrish titled, "The Difference Between Amateurs and Professionals,” I'm reflecting on some of his key points with today's discussion on:

“Amateurs think good outcomes are the result of their brilliance. Professionals understand when outcomes are the result of luck."

Obviously, professionals don't run their organizations on the principle of luck. They have systems, gather data, conduct analysis, and carefully make projections. But they also realize at the end of the day, multiple factors can tip their operation toward success or failure. In that sense, they might chalk up it up to luck. Or at least, not lean back in their chair and self-congratulate. [As a person of faith, I personally see God's hand of blessing in much of the success I've experienced; I personally have a hard time attributing anything to luck!]

Amateurs, on the other hand, believe it is their stroke of genius that brings about success. They're quick to take credit when multiple other players and factors were contributors to success. The problem—besides the obvious ones of not giving credit to others—is, that when amateurs self-extol their greatness, they fail to truly evaluate what took place and prepare for the future. They expect successful outcomes every time. They fail to rely on others. In essence, they are self-deceived and have set themselves up for future failure.

Jim Collins' window/mirror metaphor serves well in this context. When things go well, always look out the window at your team and congratulate them. When they don't go well, look in the mirror and take responsibility! And with all good outcomes, remember to thank God for his blessings, and not think more highly of yourself than you ought!