Why Average is a Failing Formula: Lioness 2.0

In a society where “mediocrity” often wears the mask of normalcy, the temptation to settle for average has captured many, leading them down a path of indifference where dreams and goals merely whisper what could have been.

Life choices are made based on societal “norms” or expectations (whether directly stated or implied) from family or peers.

Distractions are abundant, yet the allure of “average” is ever-present and inescapable.

Entertainment and “cheap dopamine” are all around us (think:  Netflix & social media scrolling), standing in stark contrast to the vigorous journey towards excellence.

Education often exemplifies this struggle. The educational system’s focus on uniformity rather than fostering individuality or creativity frequently acts more as an obstacle to growth rather than its catalyst. It attempts to shape us into foreseeable outcomes, suppressing the rich diversity of creativity inherent in each of us. This exposure to a wider societal inclination towards settling for mediocrity sparked an innate resistance within me.

Even at a very young age, it became clear to me that my own path was veering away from these conventional confines which has over time ignited a powerful motivation. This has shed light on the reality that traditional paths of education and societal norms are just elements of a broader culture that elevates mediocrity to a standard.

This insight has propelled me to defy the expected, to embrace all God given gifts and desires that make me unique, and to strive for a level of excellence that transcends the ordinary.

Moving away from the safety of mediocrity, I’ve discovered that the pursuit of excellence isn’t merely an act of defiance. It’s about seeking a life that’s genuinely rewarding and meaningful.

It requires the bravery to tackle challenges head-on, to make choices that may deviate from the norm, and to steadfastly adhere to personal values and visions.

To keep your standards high. And your beliefs FIRM.

And then develop this muscle as a “habitual” way of living in all facets of life..

The Cost of Average

The repercussions of accepting mediocrity are visible everywhere. Industries fail to innovate, opportunities diminish, and the potential within many of us remains untapped, overshadowed by a pervasive sense of “good enough.”

This acceptance of minimal effort and limited ambition leaves many drifting aimlessly, far from realizing their full potential, personally and professionally.

The gap between mediocrity and excellence isn’t just about how many hours you put in at work or the number of books you manage to read. Yet, there’s a telling statistic that illuminates the vast gap between just getting by and truly excelling while the average person barely finishes a single book a year and clocks in around 37.5 hours at their job each week, according to research, top U.S. CEOs are devouring over 60 books yearly.

Despite the flak they might catch for their hefty salaries, their commitment to relentless learning and self-betterment marks a clear line in the sand. This not only showcases the critical role of continual education and aspiration in achieving success but also emphasizes the stark contrast in outcomes between settling for the status quo and striving for more. Simply put, accepting mediocrity leads to mediocre results—results that lack genuine satisfaction or security, especially in a world where innovation and competition are relentless.

Settling for average results in just that—average outcomes, devoid of real fulfillment or security. In a landscape dominated by innovation and fierce competition, those who opt for mediocrity find themselves sidelined, their potential for growth and success stifled by self-imposed limitations.

The Unseen Battle

The gravitation towards mediocrity often stems from fear—fear of stepping outside comfort zones, of not meeting expectations, or of the unknown challenges that come with pursuing one’s true potential. Yet, it’s within this very struggle that the opportunity for growth and self-discovery lies.

Confronting these fears head-on opens the path to resilience, creativity, and transformation.

This resistance to mediocrity is not merely about rejecting what is easy or comfortable; it’s a deeper battle against the internal narratives that limit us.

Our societal structures, peppered with tales of caution against aiming too high or straying too far from the norm, can cage our ambitions.

Breaking free from these mental confines requires not only courage but a steadfast belief in our capacity for change.

It’s about dismantling the barriers we’ve constructed around our aspirations, allowing ourselves to dream bigger and reach further than we ever thought possible.

Moreover, the journey beyond average is often a solitary one, fraught with uncertainty and the potential for failure. Yet, it is precisely this vulnerability that breeds strength and innovation. Embracing the possibility of failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback transforms the way we approach our goals. It encourages a mindset of learning and adaptability, where each misstep is not a mark of defeat but a lesson to propel us forward.

This shift in perspective is crucial for anyone looking to transcend the bounds of mediocrity, as it fosters an environment where creativity flourishes, unencumbered by the fear of imperfection.

Thus, the battle against mediocrity is waged on two fronts: the external pressures of societal expectations and the internal challenge of overcoming our own doubts and fears.

Victory in this battle does not come from sheer willpower alone but from a holistic approach to personal development—one that embraces risk, acknowledges the value of failure, and celebrates the continuous pursuit of excellence. In doing so, we unlock not just our own potential, but we also light the way for others to follow, setting a new standard for what it means to truly live rather than merely exist.

Overcoming “Average” Mindsets, Living, and Ambitions

Recognize and Acknowledge the Fear: The first step in overcoming mediocrity is to acknowledge the fears that keep us tethered to it. Whether it’s the fear of failure, stepping outside our comfort zones, or the daunting prospect of facing the unknown, recognizing these fears is pivotal. Acknowledgment allows us to understand and confront the barriers head-on, rather than avoiding them.

1.Cultivate a Growth Mindset:

Adopting a growth mindset is essential in the journey away from mediocrity. This means viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. It involves understanding that skills and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence. By fostering a growth mindset, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities, where failure is not a reflection of our abilities but a step towards mastery.

2. Set Higher Standards and Seek Mastery:

This MUST become habitual. Overcoming average living requires us to raise our standards and commit to mastery in all our endeavors.

And I do mean ALL.

Mastery isn’t just about reaching excellence in a single area; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement and pushing past our comfort zones. It’s about seeing challenges as chances to grow and setbacks as necessary steps on the path to greatness. This pursuit of mastery involves dedication, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to excellence, offering a life filled with purpose, passion, and the deep satisfaction of giving our all to every pursuit. In a world content with the average, aiming for mastery provides a guiding light towards a future brimming with boundless potential.

3. Embrace Continuous Learning:

The path to transcending mediocrity is paved with knowledge and continuous improvement. Commit to being a lifelong learner, whether through reading, educational YouTube videos, seeking mentorship, taking courses, or experimenting with new experiences. Expanding our horizons not only enriches our understanding of the world but also equips us with the tools to innovate and excel in our endeavors.

This is a lifelong journey.

If you are not growing, you are dying- this is a law of nature.

4. Build Resilience and Adaptability:

Resilience—the ability to bounce back from setbacks—is a cornerstone of overcoming mediocrity. Coupled with adaptability, it forms a powerful duo that enables us to navigate the uncertainties of life with grace and determination. Developing these qualities requires practice, patience, and a willingness to face difficulties head-on, learning from each experience and adjusting our strategies accordingly.

Living intentionally outside of comfort zones will grow this muscle.

5. Practice Self-Compassion and Persistence:

The journey away from average is fraught with challenges that can test our resolve. Practicing self-compassion, giving ourselves grace for the missteps along the way, and persisting in the face of adversity are crucial. Remember, progress is rarely linear; it’s the cumulative effect of consistent effort, even in the face of setbacks, that leads to remarkable achievements.

6. Surround Yourself with Excellence:

The people we surround ourselves with can significantly influence our mindset and ambitions. Seek out communities and individuals who embody the standards of excellence and mastery you aspire to. Engaging with people who challenge, inspire, and motivate us can elevate our own standards and propel us towards our goals.

Incorporating these strategies into our lives is not a one-time effort but a continuous process of growth and self-improvement.

Overcoming mediocrity is about making a conscious decision every day to live with purpose, to embrace our potential, and to commit to a life of excellence and mastery. By doing so, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire those around us to break free from the confines of the average and pursue their highest aspirations.

Be True To YOU. Be Bold. Be Lioness.