Why Greatness is More Important Than Fame

Before he turned 30, Michelangelo completed two of his greatest works, the Pieta and David. His talents compelled Pope Julius II to commission him to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, making him famous for generations to come.

J.D. Salinger worked on his classic book, “The Catcher in the Rye,” while serving in World War II. Carrying parts of the manuscript in his backpack while landing on the beaches of Normandy and walking through the Hurtgen Forest, Salinger continued putting pen to paper. When the book was finally published in 1951, when Salinger was 32, Salinger became famous — and his novel continues to sell today.

In 1971, singer-songwriter Don McClean, while performing as the opening act for Laura Nyro at Temple University, played a song for 8:42 titled “American Pie.” It became an instant classic — and many websites remain devoted to understanding its meaning.

During the late 1960s and early ’70s, Al Pacino was a little-known Broadway actor who was struggling to find work. He landed an incredible role as Michael Corleone in the movie “The Godfather,” which allowed him to showcase his acting prowess. Once the movie was released, his greatness became evident and launched his career for decades to come.

Tom Brady was the 199th pick in the 2000 NFL Draft. He didn’t play as a rookie, then an injury allowed him to start. That then allowed him to lead his team to a Super Bowl, his first of seven during an illustrious career. After Brady became a great player, he became famous.

When Columbia Records dropped Aretha Franklin from its label in 1966, she was a struggling singer, facing enormous debts. She then signed a deal with Atlantic Records, and for the next seven years, produced hit after hit to become famous. Franklin was always a great singer. But it took extensive time for her to become a famous one.

These six vignettes have something in common, even though they occurred throughout different parts of history and in different fields.

Each person was focused on greatness, not becoming famous (Jimmy Iovine clarified this point when talking to Rick Rubin on his podcast).

Unfortunately, being famous doesn’t require greatness today. Because of social media and reality television, becoming a household name or an influencer doesn’t require require outstanding skill or talent. It simply requires doing something that becomes viral — then fame entering our life.

But when we focus on being elite, gearing our work toward greatness ahead of our penchant for stardom, we build something sustainable.

True greatness is always a journey, not a destination. It's about constantly striving for improvement and growth. Most importantly, it's about enjoying the journey and celebrating the small victories along the way.

Today, let’s remind those we lead and influence to work for greatness — not simply fame.