Chapter 1: The Perils of Average

Who enjoys being just average? Keep your hand down; I might just give you a swift kick in the rear! Would you relish biting into a mediocre apple? Or cruising in a run-of-the-mill vehicle? Please, tell me you wouldn't. Why would anyone opt for mediocrity when they can aim for greatness?

Mediocrity, with its subpar performances and outcomes, has become a plague in the 21st century, dragging individuals down to the lowest common denominator and reducing them to mere commodities. I usually prefer to adopt an optimistic outlook and spread hope, but today, the mindset and actions of those who settle for average have left me feeling exasperated.

Hearing people boast about their "impressive" achievements while delivering lackluster results is enough to make my stomach turn. It seems they are blind to the fact that their so-called successes pale in comparison to genuine excellence. With advancements in artificial intelligence and emerging sciences, the bar for competition has risen significantly. Some individuals are able to accumulate wealth, improve their health, and achieve prosperity at a pace that far outstrips billions worldwide.

I'm sorry to say, but merely settling for average will get you nowhere. It will tether you to an unambitious society that is regressing rather than progressing.

Just three days ago, I visited a startup client to review their presentation as they prepared for a meeting with potential investors. Upon entering their office, I noticed employees were more focused on having fun than on their coding tasks. As I observed them further, it became clear they were attempting to emulate the Silicon Valley ethos without possessing the requisite talent, focus, or drive.

I sat through their presentation about a new mobile app they believed would transform the e-commerce landscape. Three minutes in, I was bored and urged the presenter to expedite his delivery. When I inquired about what made his app exceptional, his response was filled with empty jargon.

I bluntly told him that his app was, at best, mediocre. He looked at me in disbelief. Typically, startups like this hire consultants to receive compliments and friendly advice. I’m not that kind of consultant; I prefer to be forthright, as investors will be even harsher if I don't.

I recalled seeing far superior technology in China a decade ago, where people were dedicated to working fourteen-hour days to develop exceptional e-commerce logistics and interfaces. Comparing their achievements to what I witnessed recently felt like watching someone travel a century into the future. It’s no surprise they now operate some of the leading e-commerce applications globally. I informed them that I would not invest in their app due to its lack of value and warned them they would quickly fade away if faced with more innovative competitors.

I’m not being rude; rather, I sensed that they were projecting an image of excellence without a solid foundation. Their lack of genuine quality was evident in their inadequate preparation and research regarding both current trends and historical advancements. The only above-average element in their office seemed to be their attractive secretaries; everything else was forgettable.

How serious are you about your writing on platforms like Medium? Are you genuinely striving for excellence, or are you merely churning out content for the sake of it, resulting in subpar work just to earn a quick buck?

I refuse to engage with or employ individuals who deliver mediocre performance; I won’t even befriend “B players” as they weigh me down with excuses and substandard work. Recently, I hired two freelance writers for a project, compensated them fairly, and yet received disappointing results. A couple of days later, we hired another writer at half the price, and she produced a commendable piece.

It’s becoming increasingly clear that monetary compensation does not equate to quality output. Some individuals pursue excellence and uphold high standards for their work, regardless of their pay.

If you find yourself struggling to achieve results in life or financially, it’s likely that your work is average, your energy is moderate, and your standards are probably below par. Acknowledging this is a positive step, as it indicates you have the potential to enhance your skills and strive for excellence. The real danger arises when you become accustomed to mediocrity, leading to a habit of producing lackluster results. If that describes you, failure is inevitable; I can guarantee it.

Successful individuals succeed for a reason; I have never encountered a competent entrepreneur who neglects customer service, compromises product quality, or settles for mediocre financial outcomes. I’ve yet to see a top actor settle for a subpar film or deliver lackluster scenes.

All high achievers aim for the pinnacle of success; if they can't achieve it, they opt to exit the game gracefully and seek opportunities that align with their strengths.

From today onward, I urge you not to write merely for the sake of daily publication. Avoid copying someone else's work, changing a few words, and patting yourself on the back as if you’re a talented writer. Don’t rely on AI tools to produce mediocre articles and then label yourself a genius. Engaging in any of these practices will lead to failure, without a doubt! The world is teeming with ordinary people yielding average outcomes, and the market is becoming increasingly discerning, raising the quality bar like never before. Strive for excellence, create outstanding work, and disregard the rest!

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Chapter 2: Financial Freedom and Personal Growth

In this video, learn about common financial mistakes that keep individuals trapped in poverty and how to overcome them for a better financial future.

Chapter 3: Moving On After Heartbreak

This podcast episode discusses effective strategies for quickly moving past a breakup and regaining emotional stability.