This one made me smile:
“It’s easy to look sharp when you haven’t done any work.”
Truth is, real impact wears you down a bit.
The polished surface might impress some.
But it’s the wear and tear that tells the real story.
Here’s what I’ve seen in 20+ years of building businesses:
1. The most valuable people often look the most “used.”
They’ve faced the tough calls. Taken the hits.
And still show up with clarity and grit.
2. Don’t confuse appearance with ability.
Some of the sharpest-looking people crumble under pressure.
And some of the quiet grinders move mountains.
3. Your scuffs are your strength.
They mean you’ve been in the game. You’ve done the work.
Experience isn’t shiny — it’s earned.
So yes, sharpen your skills. But don’t chase “looking sharp.”
Chase being useful.
That’s where the real value is. – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan; Looking sharp is easy. Being useful is harder.
•