As I opened the gifts I had gotten at my 50th birthday party, I came across one that struck me a little funny. A wooden plaque that said, “I’m Not Here to Be Average, I’m Here to Be Awesome”
It was kind of cool in a way, but then I also wondered, “Do they think that’s what I think of myself?” I certainly hoped not, but I worried that might be the case. And I also worried that it might actually be true. Was I getting a little too full of myself?
I’d just come off a very exciting year. Numerous personal records in running, completing some exciting ultra marathons, going through run coaching certification and leading my first group coaching program. My name was getting mentioned a lot and although it was exhilarating, it also made me feel a little uncomfortable. I had always been more comfortable blending into the background, rather than standing out. Very insecure and lacking in self confidence. Average, not awesome.
Ironically, I pursued and claimed average as a badge of honor. I was critical of those I deemed attention seekers or those who were always pursuing some scheme that would bring them fame or fortune. “Why can’t they just be happy with being average?”, I’d wonder. It’s so much safer and predictable than trying and failing and trying and failing. I convinced myself that being average was my sweet spot and ticket to lifelong security and satisfaction.
Average WAS awesome. Until it wasn’t. The true me was invisible to others, but more importantly, to myself.
When I started to step out and pursue my true passions, average was no longer so attractive. Pushing my limits, finding out who I really was and wanted to become. That became my new pursuit. Stepping out of the background and putting myself out there to be noticed, for better or worse. It was exciting and scary and real and raw.
I don’t really know if my friends put any real thought behind that awesome plaque or if they just thought it was fun. But now when I look at it sitting on the shelf in my office, I no longer have that funny feeling. It feels positive; empowering. It reminds me that it’s easy to be average. Low risk. But that’s not what I or any of us are put on this earth for. We are put here to step into our true selves, our calling, our power and beauty and to share it freely.