Discover the freedom and joy of embracing your averageness in a society fixated on perfection. Learn how to find happiness in being ordinary.
Social media is filled with pictures of people living their “best lives” as you scroll through it. They’re scaling mountains, launching start-ups, and jet-setting around the globe.
Meanwhile, you’re sitting on your couch, munching on chips, and binge-watching your favourite show.
And guess what? That’s perfectly okay.
In a world that constantly pushes us to be extraordinary, a subtle shift in mindset towards embracing averageness is taking place. It’s about embracing being average, ordinary, and finding joy in mediocrity.
This article explores why being an “average Joe” or “plain Jane” could lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.
The Tyranny of Exceptionalism
We live in a society that worships at the altar of exceptionalism. From a young age, we’re told to stand out, be the best, and reach for the stars.
But here’s the truth: not everyone can be a star. And that’s not just okay—it’s necessary.
Think about it.
- If everyone were a CEO, who would keep the company running?
- If everyone were a world-famous chef, who would appreciate their culinary creations?
The world needs average people, and there’s beauty in that.
🔑 Key takeaway: The pressure to be exceptional often leads to stress and unhappiness.
The Joy of Being Just Okay
Remember when you were a kid, and just existing was enough? You didn’t worry about being the best. You were happy building wonky sandcastles and drawing stick figures.
What if you could reclaim that simple joy?
- Imagine the freedom of trying new hobbies without the pressure to master them.
- Picture the relief of not constantly comparing yourself to others. That’s the power of embracing averageness.
🔑 Key takeaway: Embracing averageness can bring unexpected freedom and joy.
The Hidden Benefits of Mediocrity
Being average doesn’t limit your potential for growth and improvement. It’s about finding contentment in your current state while still allowing room for improvement.
Here are a few benefits:
- Less stress: You can relax and enjoy life when you’re not constantly striving to be the best.
- More authentic relationships: People are drawn to those who are genuine, not perfect.
- Better work-life balance: Accepting that you don’t have to be a superstar at work helps you focus on what truly matters.
🔑 Key takeaway: Being ordinary doesn’t mean giving up on personal growth.
Redefining Success on Your Own Terms
Society often defines success in narrow terms—wealth, fame, power. But what if we expanded that definition?
What if success meant being a good friend, enjoying your hobbies, or simply finding peace in your day-to-day life?
By redefining success, you free yourself from the endless race for achievement.
As the writer Robert Louis Stevenson once said,
“To be what we are and to become what we are capable of becoming is the only end of life.”
🔑 Key takeaway: Redefining success on your own terms is crucial for happiness.
Embracing Your Inner Average: A Simple How-To
So, how do we embrace our averageness in a world obsessed with excellence?
Here’s how:
- Set achievable goals that push you out of your comfort zone without causing excessive stress.
- Celebrate small wins—even making your bed can be an accomplishment.
- Be kind to yourself. Self-compassion is key.
- Limit your exposure to social media. Posts on social media often show only the best moments, which can create a distorted view of reality.
🔑 Key takeaway: Contentment often lies in appreciating the simple things in life.
Got Questions?
Is settling for average an excuse for laziness?
Not at all! Embracing averageness isn’t about giving up or not trying. It’s about finding joy in your current state while still leaving room for growth and improvement.
Won’t being average hold me back in my career?
Not necessarily. Being average doesn’t mean you can’t have a fulfilling career. Focus on your strengths and find a role that aligns with your values and skills.
How can I be happy with being average when social media shows everyone living extraordinary lives?
Remember, social media is a highlight reel, not reality. Most people’s lives are filled with ordinary moments. Focus on building genuine relationships and engaging in real-life experiences.
Does embracing averageness hinder self-improvement?
No! You can still strive to learn and grow. The difference is in the motivation: improve for your own satisfaction, not because of external pressure.
How do I deal with family or societal pressure to be exceptional?
Start by defining your own values and success. Communicate these with loved ones and set boundaries where needed. It’s your life, and you decide what fulfils you.
Wrapping Up
In a world that shouts “be exceptional,” there’s quiet power in whispering “be yourself.”
Embracing your averageness doesn’t mean giving up on dreams; it means finding the freedom to be who you truly are.
Remember, your ordinary life holds its own extraordinary beauty and significance.
As J.R.R. Tolkien once wrote,
“Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.”
By embracing your averageness, you might just inspire others to do the same.
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