Durand on Demand

Why High Standards Fail Without Humility

Dave Durand

We all know the value of high standards. They matter at work, at home, and in leadership. But there’s a tension most people never resolve: when standards are high and humility is low, relationships break down, trust erodes, and hypocrisy creeps in.

In this episode, I walk through why aiming high is essential—and why it fails without humility anchoring it. I talk about the difference between healthy standards and perfectionism, how judgment turns inward and outward, and why humility is the only thing that allows us to pursue excellence without destroying ourselves or others in the process.

If you care about growth, leadership, family, or becoming a better version of yourself through the ordinary moments of daily life, this episode will help you recalibrate your aim.