Which statement accurately reflects the concept that standards are defined by what you tolerate?

• A. The standard is defined by what you tolerate
• B. The standard is defined by external benchmarks
• C. The standard is defined by mission statements
• D. The standard is defined by personal preference

Answer: (A)

Standards are defined by what you tolerate because tolerance sets the boundary for what is acceptable. When you allow something to slide—late arrivals, sloppy work, disrespectful behavior—that tolerance becomes the standard people come to expect and meet. Over time, that tolerance signals what’s permissible, and the team adapts to achieve that level rather than aiming higher. To raise standards, you must stop tolerating the subpar and clearly enforce non-negotiables with consistent consequences, showing what truly won’t be accepted. External benchmarks and mission statements can guide you, but they don’t automatically become your day-to-day standards unless you actively uphold and enforce them. Personal preference isn’t what defines standards, because standards should reflect shared values and objective performance requirements, not individual taste.