Chasing Excellence
Chasing Excellence

Chasing Excellence

Why You Should Treat Triumph & Disaster as the Imposters That They Are

The Full Listener's Guide

Nov 25, 2025
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We explore Rudyard Kipling’s timeless poem “If” and unpack what it reveals about resilience, emotional intelligence, and building character that lasts.

You’ll learn why triumph and disaster are both impostors, how to return to center when chaos surrounds you, what it means to rebuild with worn-out tools, and why the discipline to be the same person in every environment is the foundation of a meaningful life.

Ben shares personal stories about imposter syndrome, competing freely, and grace under risk - plus reads his own modern translation of the poem that makes the wisdom accessible for today (which you can also read below).

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5 Big Ideas

1. Emotional Intelligence is Centered Calmness

The first principle of character is keeping your composure when chaos surrounds you.

When others panic, when blame flies, when doubt fills the air - the goal isn’t to avoid feeling these emotions, but to return to center as quickly as possible.

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