A Radical Guide to Reject Society’s Success Mirage and Embrace Being… Average

Is it okay to be average? I don’t know – but I’d like to think I’m exceptionally ordinary. In a society that idolises wealth, success, and fame, this is a question that many people struggle with. We are bombarded with images of 12 year old millionaires and social media influencers living a life of luxury, making it easy to feel like we’re not doing enough, or that we’re ‘behind’. 

While it’s important to have goals and aspirations, the reality is that most of us will lead average lives. And my potentially controversial, unpopular opinion is… that’s perfectly okay! Surprising, we don’t need to be millionaires or influencers to find happiness and fulfilment. 

According to a study conducted by the Social Security Administration, 90% of Americans earn less than $100,000 a year, and the median salary is around $32,000. While this may not seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that these are just numbers. Happiness and fulfilment can’t be measured in dollars. (Is that too cliche? 🤣)

A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology found that young people who chase after wealth and status are more likely to experience mental health problems. This is perhaps why, despite the rise of young millionaires, there has also been a rise in depression rates among young adults. This is because the pursuit of success can lead to a never-ending cycle of comparison and competition, making it difficult to find contentment in the present moment.

Social media has only added to this pressure. We are constantly bombarded with images of perfect lives, perfect bodies, and perfect relationships. It’s easy to feel like we’re not living up to the expectations set by others. According to a study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, spending just 30 minutes on social media can lead to increased levels of depression and anxiety. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the highlight reels of others’ lives, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. A study published in the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that spending just 30 minutes on social media can lead to increased levels of depression and anxiety. This is because social media creates an environment where we are constantly comparing ourselves to others, leading us to feel like we’re not good enough.

So, why do we feel the need to be exceptional? Perhaps it’s because we’ve been sold a myth that success equals happiness. It’s not like we’re aloof to the idea that finding meaning and purpose in our lives, regardless of our financial situation or social status is super valuable.

Instead of striving for greatness, perhaps we should focus on being the best versions of ourselves. This means setting realistic goals, taking care of our mental and physical health, and finding fulfilment in our relationships and hobbies.

It’s important for me to state explicitly, that being average doesn’t mean settling for mediocrity. It’s about embracing who we are and finding happiness in the present. In fact, some of the happiest and most fulfilled people are those who have learned to appreciate the ordinary moments in life. They understand that happiness is not something that can be bought or achieved through external validation, but rather something that comes from within and the ‘small things’ in life.

 So, the next time you feel the pressure to be exceptional, remember that Ayo said, it’s okay to be average. Focus on being the best version of yourself and finding joy in the everyday moments. Because in the end, I think that’s what truly matters. (imo).