‘Extraordinary’ is overrated. Here’s how to embrace the power of an ordinary life

Extraordinary is often hailed as the pinnacle of achievement, but what about the power of an ordinary life? Discover the beauty in simplicity, the strength in normality, and the profound impact of embracing the everyday. Let's redefine what it means to lead a fulfilling life.

It’s time to reevaluate the power of an ordinary life

The pursuit of extraordinary is the status quo, and in early adulthood, “it’s a challenge not to feel as though finding yourself has been turned into a competitive sport.”

• The solution is to turn away from constant comparison and instead focus on finding fulfillment and identity on your own terms.

There is no perfect next place

We bring our old selves with us wherever we go

• When you’re feeling unsettled or alone, establish routines that give you a sense of stability and keep open lines of communication with your loved ones
• “We’ve got to quit glorifying the idea that there’s always something better out there”

In love, choose yourself first

Each relationship can teach us how to love someone, how to be intimate with someone, what we want out of a partner.

• A partnership may enrich your life, but If romance doesn’t fit right now, nothing is wrong with you, and you have a choice either way.

Critique the “best life” ideal

To rework your perception of the perfect life, it’s important to understand and acknowledge the privilege of being able to pick and choose your plans for the future in the first place.

• Considering the value in our average, good-enough-as-is selves helps us reorient ourselves to the actual needs and desires we have.”
• Focus on finding your own interpretation of fulfillment.

Harness the power of everyday ordinary life

We must decide to embrace our most ordinary selves

• This can be as simple as logging off your computer 15 minutes early, calling a friend even if you still have items on your to-do list, or being kind to yourself when you fall short of your own expectations

Stop Worshipping “the altar of work”

When you’re focused on being grateful for the job, you prevent yourself from critiquing the labor structure that you’re existing in

• Consider your values and value system
• Is this where you want to spend all of your waking hours?
• Are you being treated as a human being? Are you equating this job to your self-worth?

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