Excellence is all about doing ordinary things extraordinarily well. It is the opposite of mediocrity—it is not being satisfied with doing things as well as others, but doing them always a little bit better.

Excellence is not so much a skill to be learned, but an attitude to be embraced. It is not a one-time event but a lifelong activity. . . . For nurses, the pursuit of excellence must be accompanied by what I’ll call a “connection of the heart.” After all, you are by choice a caregiver. And the care you provide will be of critical importance to the health and well-being of others. After all, “caring helps the cure.” It is well documented that reducing patient stress, helping them stay comfortable and calm, can have a real, measurable impact on patient recovery.

. . . Keep in mind that your mark can be big or small, affecting millions or affecting one. Never lose sight of the fact that it is often the little things in life that can have the greatest impact—a much needed smile, a comforting touch, a kind word.

Deborah A. Henretta, President, Global Baby Care Division, Procter & Gamble (School of Nursing ceremony)