HELLO Beta! How was your performance? Why do you sound so distressed? I asked my niece who tried restlessly for her elocution inter-school competition. I have known her since childhood, she though tries hard, and gives her soul to whatever she participates in but fails to be labeled as “the winner”. This experience of mine urged me to ask her how was your performance, rather Have you won? Not because she cannot win but to make her realise that giving your best is equivalent to winning. It is rightly said, ‘Winning means you are doing better than you have done before’. Her reply in a groaning voice stunned me ‘For the average child like me winning is just a dream’. Does she mean participating or average is equal to nobody?’ thought reflected in my mind.

In this competitive, fast pace world the pressure to win at all costs is taking a toll on our entire society. Millennials, students, and workers alike are suffering from distress and depression at unprecedented levels. Society keeps telling you to ‘be exceptional’. Success gurus are feeding this in our brains too, ‘You were born original, don’t die average’. All these instead of motivating people create an opposite impact. They tell you to stop being average at anything. Does it mean that being average means you are not worthy of appreciation? In today’s society, we often strive for perfection and greatness. We idolise celebrities, athletes, and high achievers and we compare ourselves to their success. We set their perfection as a standard and strive to reach their standard ultimately leading to restlessness and anxiety.

Let us try to understand what average means. According to the dictionary, it means the normal standard. Statistically speaking, the vast majority of us are going to be average means falling in the category of normal standards. It means that we are part of the majority, and we share similar experiences with those around us. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and we all make mistakes. The moment you embrace who you are- and stop pretending you are exceptional – that’s when you’ll start focusing on self-improvement rather than bragging. It allows us to embrace our imperfections and recognise that they are what make us unique individuals. Sense of jubilation in what you have accomplished is in real terms success, ultimately leading to happiness.

Furthermore, rejoicing being average can help us set more realistic goals for ourselves. We can focus on improving our skills and achieving small victories along the way. This certainly will lead to a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in our lives. Even Bhagavat Gita says, ‘Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhurmatey Sangostva Akarmani’. This verse encourages individuals to focus on performing their duties and actions with sincerity, dedication, and without attachment to their outcome or results. By doing so, one can avoid being consumed by anxiety, frustration, or disappointment that may arise due to unfulfilled expectations or desires.

Be your own benchmark. Aspire to be the best version of yourself regardless of where you rank compared to others. This practice in turn will help you to become the Best version of yourself. This can lead to a greater sense of gratitude and joy in your life.