There is a story that this is what Lincoln’s mother said to him on her deathbed. Lincoln then used the phrase himself in his dealings with others and applied it to his own life and to his Presidency. History tells us that whilst his term as President was not all plain sailing, Lincoln is still considered one of the best ever US Presidents; he was a “good one”. Whatever the truth surrounding where or how the phrase originated, the sentiment is one we can all aspire to.

As a unique individual, you have the choice to be who you want to be; at work with your peers, colleagues, team, clients and suppliers; in your personal life with your friends, family, and members of your community and with yourself.

As you have that choice, why not be the best you can be at what you choose to be? If you choose to be a carpenter be a good one; if you choose to be a salesperson, be a good one; if you choose to be a father be a good one and if you choose to be an entrepreneurial leader be a good one.

To be good at what you do and who you are requires commitment.

First define what good looks like and then be it every minute of every day irrespective of circumstances, external influences or internal feelings. Your internal motivation to be good at what you are is something only you can choose. Therefore you can choose to be poor, mediocre or good; you may even choose to be great and aim for excellence.

Why not choose to be a good one and see what impact that has on you and those around you?