We all have standards. Standards for the way we work, the way we dress, the way we communicate, the way we interact, the way we get things done, the way we lead, etc. So here's a few thoughts on setting your standards:

1. A higher Standard. As leaders, we are called to a higher standard. And as followers of Christ, an even higher standard. Set your standards so high that it may seem impossible to reach them.

2. God demands and expects excellence from us. It drives me crazy when I see something done without excellence but with the excuse of "well its okay because our intentions are good." Nope. Not good enough. Our God deserves our very best. Always. We should never use our faith as an excuse for being average. Our faith should drive us to be excellent in all things.

3. Average is not good enough. Average is easy. But it's a constant battle to be great. It's hard, or otherwise everyone would be great.

4. Learn from the best. Comparing yourself to others just like you won't challenge you or make you improve. Compare yourself to the best. Both inside and outside your industry. Learn from others who are better.

5. Expect to be excellent. Can you say that you or your team are "the best in the world at what you do?" If the answer is no, then why not?

6. Set the tone. If you want your team to reach for the highest level and strive for excellence, you first have to set the example. I hear this from leaders all the time.... "well, my team is just not committed to making things great." The question is are YOU committed to making things great and setting the tone and standard for your team. It has to begin with you.

7. Reality is real. If you can't achieve greatness and the standard you have set, then figure out why. Maybe you just don't have the team to pull it off. Or operationally it's just not possible. Understand your reality, make adjustments, and then execute. Don't get stuck in the blame game. Make adjustments and keep striving.