“Why You Shouldn’t Settle for Being Average: Lessons from a Comic”

In a world where we are encouraged to be exceptional, to stand out, and to achieve more than those around us, the idea of settling for mediocrity seems like a foreign concept. However, there are some who believe that being average is the key to a happy and successful life. A comic titled “11 Ways to be Unremarkably Average” has been making the rounds on the internet, and while it may seem like a tongue-in-cheek guide to living a lackluster life, it offers some valuable lessons on why settling for average should not be our end goal.

The cartoon, created by Zen Pencils and based on the writing of author and entrepreneur Chris Guillebeau, presents a list of rules to follow if you want to be completely average. Some of these rules include: never questioning the status quo, always following the rules, working just hard enough to get by, and never setting ambitious goals or dreaming big. While these rules may seem like a recipe for a comfortable and unremarkable life, they completely ignore the potential that each individual has to make a significant impact on the world.

One of the key takeaways from the comic is that settling for mediocrity means giving up on the potential that you have to make a difference in the world. By ignoring your passions and ambitions, you are depriving society of the unique traits and skills that only you possess. Each person has the power to make a difference in their own way, and by settling for average, we miss out on the opportunity to make a truly meaningful impact.

Additionally, the cartoon also highlights the danger of blindly following rules and traditions without questioning their validity. While some rules may be necessary for maintaining order and stability, many others hold us back from reaching our full potential. By accepting things at face value and never questioning the rules, we limit our ability to think critically and push boundaries. The most successful individuals are those who are not afraid to challenge the status quo and explore new and innovative ideas.

The idea of settling for average also goes against one of the fundamental principles of self-improvement: constantly challenging yourself to be better. By always striving to improve and achieve new goals, we are pushing ourselves to be the best version of ourselves. This not only leads to personal fulfillment but also inspires others to do the same. We are all capable of achieving great things, but it requires stepping out of our comfort zones and taking risks.

While the comic may have been intended as a humorous take on the benefits of being average, it ultimately serves as a cautionary tale on the dangers of complacency. By settling for mediocrity, we miss out on the potential that we all possess to make a difference in the world. It’s important to remember that being exceptional is not about being better than those around us, but rather about fulfilling our own unique potential and making a meaningful impact on the world.

In conclusion, the message of the comic is clear: settling for average should not be our end goal. Instead, we should strive to challenge ourselves, question the rules, and pursue our passions to the fullest. By unleashing our full potential, we can leave a lasting impact on the world and inspire others to do the same. So, don’t settle for being unremarkably average – aim to be extraordinary.