I was thinking recently about the way we use the word “just.” For example, adding that word in front of an identification of what I do has a very limiting effect. If I say that I’m “just” a Director of Communication, it leaves the impression that I’m not very proud of what I do. I can leave out that one word and say the same thing in such a manner as to convince you that I couldn’t be prouder of my chosen profession.

On the other hand, the word can be used to empower. It can be used to describe the extra effort that separates mediocrity from excellence. Thomas Edison is quoted as saying, “The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” Many times the team that wins is the one that practiced a certain play just one more time. The difference in good and great is often times a very small difference based on just a little more effort.