Two versions of you are not equal

You don't have to maximize your potential. You don't have to strive and strain in pursuit of personal excellence. You may not be interested in that work or that life.

It is within your right to accept average from yourself, but choices have consequences. Accepting average and not pursuing excellence cuts you off from certain things. It also prevents others from experiencing and benefitting from who you could be but choose not to be.

The best version of you has a profoundly different impact in the world than the average version of you. The decision to pursue excellence isn't just about you. It's about anyone who experiences you, relies on you, and believes in you.

Answer the call. Do the work.