Raising the Bar

As I reflect on the goals I set for myself this year, I realize how much I’ve learned. When I commit to a goal, I approach it with focus, consistency, and hard work. But once I achieve it, I often feel restless and ready for the next challenge. High achievers are rarely satisfied for long; we’re wired to keep pushing forward, always dreaming, always striving. Growth is in our nature.
It’s surprising, then, to learn that 95% of people are content doing the same things the same way, avoiding risk. That makes the remaining 5%, the risk-takers and dreamers, responsible for change and innovation.
Last year, I accepted the unexpected role of president of the Santa Clarita Artists Association, a position I never imagined taking on. Through this experience, I uncovered hidden strengths and developed skills I didn’t know I had. I had to connect with many different personalities, learning to navigate moods, manage egos, and keep people motivated. I had to be both direct and compassionate. The goal wasn’t just to plan events or exchange facts; it was to create genuine connections and make everyone feel valued and heard.
To our amazement, we made things happen. We met our goals, and along the way, we built confidence and pride that can only come from giving 100% of ourselves. That kind of success can’t be bought. It has to be earned through effort, teamwork, and purpose.
We are at our best when we work with humility, courage, and mutual respect, leaving ego behind and leading with heart. Even if we don’t have all the answers at the start, we just need to just force ourselves to begin. Challenges become opportunities. Each time we raise the bar, we discover new strengths and reinvent ourselves.
Success is knowing you did your best to become the best version of yourself.
Naomi Young has been a teacher in Santa Clarita for over forty-three years with experience in Jewish studies and bar/ bat mitzvah training. She is also a seasoned writer and multimedia artist. You can reach her via email at naomiyoung7@yahoo.com or explore her creative endeavors on her website, www.naomiyoung.com .