April 6, 2026

Recently, I was reading an article in Forbes, interviewing Tim Schurrer, and he states, “There is a secret society of people who define success differently. They are showing us these new ways to think about it.” One of the most practical ways to join that “society” is surprisingly simple: notice the people around you.

In a culture that rewards self-promotion, Schurrer’s message is quietly subversive. The “secret society” he describes isn’t about hiding your talent or denying ambition. It’s about aiming your ambition at something larger than your own spotlight. The real question, for each of us, may not be “How far can I go?” but “Who gets to win because I showed up?”

David Cook, a coach for Sports and Performance Psychology, writes in his book that greatness is defined as selfless exceptionalism. Choosing a selfless heart is the defining pillar of greatness. It is a place of exceptional performances, designed to enhance and encourage others' lives. When we choose greatness, we perform to inspire and encourage; we lead to inspire and encourage; we choose exceptionalism to inspire and encourage; and our life mission is to make the lives of those around us better on the journey.

Greatness is about being a servant, a giver. It isn’t about ourselves. It’s about others.

Greatness goes through success and then keeps going. Greatness is the place beyond success. Not everyone reaches this mark: only those with a noble heart.

Cook states that two major traits radiate from people of greatness: Their need to achieve and their need to give.

Greatness-minded people creatively combine their achievements and journey to change the world around them. Their legacy is powerful, yet others focus on it. Those of true greatness lift, encourage, and inspire others with their words and exceptional actions. They call out and guard others' dreams. They are a dream-guardians. Their character is to give, not take.

Victor Frankl states, “When you give, you live.” It leaves a lasting legacy because it is other-focused.

Greatness, unlike success alone, leads to fulfillment. In the end, fulfillment is the longing of every person’s heart. It is found in the place that lies beyond success.

Greatness is at work when we use our influence to enhance others' lives. It takes a special kind of person to be genuinely happy for someone else’s success. Be that kind of person because generous + grateful people win at life!

 Intentionally Own It! What growth does this message inspire me to embrace, and why does it matter? When I embrace it, who am I becoming, and what value does this add to my life and to others?