Let’s be real—our society’s hooked on more, not better, drowning in quantity while quality takes a backseat. Streaming platforms churn out endless shows, but how many on Netflix leave you feeling inspired? Social media feeds overflow with posts—everyone’s a content creator, but where’s the substance? Music playlists are a dime a dozen—remember when rock bands had talent and skill? Now it’s just auto-tune and “music in a box.” Art and books flood the market—everyone has a book, but not everyone’s an author—and how often do their books touch your soul? We’ve traded depth for speed, lowered our standards, and settled for instant gratification, even if it delivers half-baked results.

It shows in what we put out as a society, from entertainment to everyday behaviors—we’ve stopped saying “excuse me,” left shopping carts scattered, and shrugged off basic courtesy. We’re all about “just getting by,” but at what cost? When we settle for mediocrity, we miss the chance to create something meaningful—for ourselves, for others, and for the greater good. But God calls us to a higher standard: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). Let’s talk about why settling isn’t enough—and how you can pursue excellence with passion, and without burnout, especially as a midlife woman ready to live fully for God.

Doing It Unto the Lord: A Higher Standard

God doesn’t call us to “just get by”—He calls us to give our all, to do our work as if it’s for Him. I learned this firsthand while directing a show at my old church. During rehearsal, I asked the cast to rerun a scene, and one member said, “It doesn’t have to be perfect, we’re doing it for God.” I replied, “It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it’s because we’re doing it for God that it should be our best.” That moment stuck with me. Excellence isn’t about perfection—it’s about giving your all, knowing you’re serving a higher purpose. Colossians 3:23 isn’t a suggestion; it’s a call to pour your heart into everything you do, because you’re doing it for the Lord.

My Journey: Excellence Through Passion

As an adult, I went back to college with two young kids in tow, determined to earn my BFA in acting and dance—married life and all. But math, my lifelong nemesis, stood in my way. I failed the entrance exam so badly I had to take five remedial math classes before I could even tackle the one I needed for my degree. I’d never been good at math, and those critical voices from others still rang in my head, telling me all that I can’t do—“You’re not smart enough, Sharise.” I could’ve given in to fear, but I refused. I was determined to do my best—not just to pass, but to prove to those naysayers I could do it. It took work, time, and effort (and honestly, I don’t remember any of it today!), but I graduated Magna Cum Laude—a proud moment that silenced those voices for good.

Back then, I was proving a point to others. Now, I no longer have to prove anything to anyone but to God and myself—that’s what drives me to show up fully. There’s nothing wrong with having pride in a job well done, especially when we do a job we’re proud of, when our actions reflect our character. That’s the legacy I want to leave for my children, because our example is part of the inheritance we pass on to our kids. Excellence isn’t about being the best or better than anyone else; it’s about being passionate, putting in the work, and trusting God with the outcome.

Pursuing Excellence: Passion Over Perfection

What Excellence Really Means

Excellence isn’t about perfectionism, overworking, or overstressing—it’s about prayerfully and purposely taking the best action you can in that moment, on that day, knowing you’re honoring God in the process.

Check Your Motives

I’ll admit, my pursuit of excellence can still run amok—I get caught up in the hustle, chasing the next thing. But I’ve learned to stop and check myself: Am I doing this for my ego or for His purpose? Am I seeking perfection or just my best? Then I pray, “God, what is this time for?” instead of chasing time and hustling. That reflection always brings me back to what matters.

Embrace Daily Variability

And here’s the thing—doing your best doesn’t look the same each day. Some days are better than others, but you do the best you can each day, trusting God with the rest. It’s deciding to do more than “just get by”—without burning out.

Avoid Burnout with Balance

How do you keep the flame of excellence alive without fizzling out? Pause and pray—take breaks to recenter on God’s purpose, ensuring your effort aligns with His will, not your own pressure. Set boundaries—say no to overcommitting, prioritize what matters, and let the rest go, trusting God’s timing. Rest in His grace—schedule intentional rest, knowing His grace covers your imperfections; excellence isn’t about doing it all, but doing what you can well. And celebrate small wins—acknowledge your efforts without waiting for perfection, giving yourself permission to recharge along the way.

Rise Above with Passion and Growth

I used to tell my kids and students, “We have enough mediocrity in the world—no need to add to it.” So how do you rise above? Start by finding the passion in doing your best. Then commit to growth: learn, grow, ask questions, learn some more, ask more questions, and grow again. Repeat. It’s a cycle of curiosity and effort that fuels excellence. When you approach your work—whether it’s a job, a hobby, or a relationship—with prayerful intention and a willingness to grow, you’ll create something meaningful, something that reflects the woman God created you to be—something done with the intent of leaving a lasting impact, not just throwing something out there for the next reel or scroll.

Connect with Being the Leading Lady

Ready to ditch mediocrity and pursue excellence in every part of your life? Sign up for my newsletter and subscribe to Sharise Uncut for raw, real insights to fuel your journey. Let’s rise above together!

~Inspired by a life of dreams and determination.