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Being Average

A World Where Average Is Not Good Enough...

By Stanley LoPublished 8 years ago 3 min read
This is the logo of my new "brand". It's called Introspective Zen. I called it this because I'm really introspective on a day-to-day basis, and I think Zen really ties it all together. Zen is basically feeling relaxed and not worried that nothing can't be solved or changed. So together, I want to bring the things that we are introspective about like our biggest regrets, and how we can change ourselves to never make those regrets.

Being average. I'm a person who's constantly reflective of who I am, the decisions I make, and how I act. What I've noticed is my inner 'fire' or innate nature to do the unconventional. Society often suppresses my ideas but when I do fight back, it feels amazing. However, society is intimidating. And I crawl back into my safety blanket. Now I know, everyone probably thinks that they are "unique" even if they don't consciously think they are. Well let's be real, we're raised as if we're the most special human being ever. I don't think there's necessarily an argument about being normal, or average. In my terms, I'd like to break it down into three aspects.

  1. Everyone's unique, whether you think you're average or not. What we've been taught to believe is I guess kind of true. But I'm not saying that everyone is the center of attention of the world. I'm saying that everyone is average to a certain extent but we're also unique in our own ways from our experiences, upbringing, etc. I believe that we are all good at something and bad at others. All we've got to do is focus on what we're "special" at. The key to all of this is to STOP comparing yourself with society or others around you. You are special for what you are and nothing can change that.
  2. Those who aren't normal. Who are they? They are people who don't let society suppress their ideas. And on top of that, they act upon their ideas. That's just how simple it is. But of course, it's a lot easier said than done. All we can do is be conscious about it, and try to separate ourselves (especially our unconscious thoughts that naturally get suppressed) from society.
  3. Lastly, never settle. Lately, I've been thinking a lot about the pursuit of happiness. How are people satisfied with their lives?? I'm confused because ever since I was little I've always wanted to make a change in the world and try to be at the top. That's probably everyone's dream but seeing all the adults around me, how are they satisfied? They live life just as happy but do they really have NO regrets?? I've got a glimpse of how it feels because I found myself settling and although it is satisfying, I know deep down that it is not what I want. If I don't make it up to my expectations, where will I end up? I've almost convinced myself that getting a good job, making a living, raising a family is good enough for me. Like as long as I have friends and family and do fun things, I'll be content with life. But that's not who I am. I'm heading off to university this year and I don't want to feel like I've got a cap over my potential. I think I'm ready to test the extents of who I really am, and whether I'm up for the challenge to NEVER settling. I'm not entirely sure about everyone else, but I'm reminded by Steve Jobs because he tells us to always remember our childish spirits. Likewise, I'm not going to let my innate attraction to comfort dictate my life. That's my way of not being average...

Update...

Just after a brief vacation, I realized something else. Not every bright and successful individual has a building to their name. Just because you aren't the most well known doesn't mean that you're not one of the best. This brings in the value, humility, and I think the best should have humility, those are the people who I respect. I'm not saying that we're all working towards having a building dedicated to them, but society makes us think that those things are the definition of success. I believe that there are those heroes just in your very own backyard. To sum it up, never feel discouraged that people don't know what you're good for, be humble, and never settle.

self help

About the Creator

Stanley Lo

I'm an introspective thinker who is constantly reflective of who he is, how he acts, and what the future awaits. My mission is to enlighten others and share how my introspection makes me a better person.

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