“Excellence Isn’t in the Tool—It’s in You”

“Excellence Isn’t in the Tool—It’s in You”

Early in my career, I believed that better tools led to better results. Like many who are starting out, I assumed success required prestige—top-tier equipment, the best brands, the highest quality materials. And for a time, that belief drove me. I invested in the finest brushes and paints, even flying to London to tour the Winsor & Newton factory after an international competition win. I bought one of their legendary handmade brushes for $250—an astonishing sum at the time. And yet, decades later, I found myself creating some of my most inspired work with a pack of synthetic brushes, many of which I cut and tore to suit my needs. What changed? Not the tools—but me. The truth is: what you do with what you have matters far more than what you have to begin with.

Don’t Wait for Perfect Conditions.
Whether you're launching a business, building a dream, or solving a challenge—your starting point doesn’t need to be ideal. The magic is in getting started, not in waiting for the stars (or supplies) to align.

Tools Help, But They Don’t Define the Outcome.
It’s tempting to believe that success lies in better gear, bigger budgets, or more prestigious credentials. But what actually matters is how you apply what you already possess—with skill, creativity, and intention.

Growth Often Comes from Letting Go of “The Way It’s Supposed to Be.”
Innovation rarely comes from perfection. It often emerges from constraints—from using what’s available, making adjustments on the fly, and being open to unexpected solutions.

The next time you catch yourself thinking, “If only I had better tools…”, remember: progress begins the moment you act, not when everything is perfect. Lean into your resourcefulness. Use what you have. Trust that with enough perseverance and imagination, even modest beginnings can lead to remarkable outcomes.