Stop Trying to Be Average

Mark Twain once said, "Keep away from people who belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great ones make you feel that you, too, can become great." Such good advice! So, stop trying to be average by fitting in with the masses and start striving for excellence, uniqueness and being extraordinary.

Here are the steps you can take:

1. You want to stop playing it safe.

This doesn't mean you should abandon all things that make you feel comfortable, like your job, your relationships or your financial securities. Rather, it means you should take more risks, if it would lead you to setting yourself apart from the ordinary and reaching your ultimate goals.

2. Associate with successful people.

These are the people who have already proven themselves to be successful and are willing to share their path with you. Call them mentors, teachers, trainers or guides, they will have already been there and know what to avoid and what to pursue.

3. Realize your full potential.

You are capable of amazing things and once you recognize that, you will be able to do anything. In fact, once you "wake up" and commit to knowing who you are and what you want to make of your life, you will begin to live every day mindful and aware. Call it self-discovery at its best!

4. Be honest and trust yourself.

Address your fears, rather than ignore them. Listen to the gut feelings inside and heed the advice. You may feel confused by what you're feeling, as it takes time to recognize the signs from the wise voice inside your head, directing and guiding you. However, once you become attuned, your judgment will be sharper and your decisions will be more courageous.

5. Don't settle for less than what you truly want.

Follow your heart and soul and don't give up or give in. You may feel this is selfish, but it's not. There is nothing selfish about honoring and respecting yourself so much that your life represents that respect.

All these things can make a difference in your life and will bring you closer to separating from the crowd. Dream big and have the courage to go for what you want. Because when you reach your goals - that's when you'll realize how amazing you truly are and how it wasn't that hard to exceed your personal expectations.

About the author: Amy Sherman, LMHC is the author of "Distress-Free Aging: A Boomer's Guide to Creating a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life"

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