Purpose Over Perfection: The Great Secret Behind Lasting Success
What Drives You When Winning Isn’t Enough?
"There are a lot of people that make it to what they thought was going to fulfil them in life, and you get there, you get to number one in the world, and they're like, 'what's the point?'“ - Scottie Scheffler
I’ve spoken to a lot of athletes this week about Scottie Scheffler’s comments. About what truly motivates them. About what pushes them to train day after day – especially after setbacks or when the promise of victory seems distant.
This question sits at the heart of every committed athlete’s journey. There’s more to it than trophies, money, and fame. It’s about something much deeper.
Deeper Meaning: Golf’s Lesson on Purpose
When golf’s biggest tournaments end, many players feel what can only be described as “the void.”
The external goals – the telic activities like winning majors, signing contracts, or earning a place in sporting history – are powerful. But these are destinations, not journeys.
Telic activities are those with a finish line. You get a result – a win, a medal, a score. But afterwards comes that nagging “now what?” feeling.
Atelic activities, on the other hand, are about the process itself. Practising swings on an empty course, refining your focus, loving the craft for its own sake. These acts don’t really finish – they’re about constant growth and development.
Finding the balance between telic and atelic pursuits is essential for happiness and consistency.
On this topic, we can draw inspiration from Richie McCaw, the rugby legend who set out not just to play for the All Blacks, but to become a “Great All Black.” His journey was bigger than each match or title – it was about meaning, legacy, and constant improvement.
The Myth of Sisyphus: Why Purpose Matters
Remember the myth of Sisyphus?
Condemned to roll a boulder up a hill for eternity, only to watch it roll down every time. It sounds bleak, but there’s a lesson here.
Meaning comes from embracing the struggle itself, not just the prize at the top. Sisyphus finds purpose not in finishing, but in showing up and giving his all every time.
Athletes often fall into the trap of chasing the next result. Business leaders chase the next deal or the next project. But there’s another, and another, and another… We think happiness or fulfilment is just one success away.
But the real edge comes from learning to love the daily work. Finding purpose in the journey – not just the destination – is the key to resilience, long-term growth, and real fulfilment.
We think if we just achieve our goals or win enough, we’ll be satisfied. But the most successful – and happiest – people are those who find meaning in the doing, not just the outcome.
Key Takeaways
Balance your goals – Set strong telic targets, but don’t ignore the daily atelic process. Enjoy the journey, not just the finish line.
Find your ‘why’ – Pursue something bigger than trophies. Maybe it’s becoming a role model, or simply loving the challenge.
Reflect regularly – Success isn’t just measured by what you win, but by how you improve and inspire others.
Embrace the struggle – The tough sessions, the routines, the setbacks – they all build your story. Like Sisyphus, find purpose in the struggle!
Success isn’t just about what you achieve – it’s about who you become along the way.
Take a moment to reflect. on what keeps you coming back, even on the toughest days?
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