Have you heard the saying, âAnything worth doing is worth doing wellâ? This quote has been echoed through the ages to encourage good works and competence. Doing your best is always a good way to tackle anything you want to accomplish.
The average person is usually trying to do the best they can. We feel better about ourselves, reach more goals, and become more successful when we do a good job.
But what if you wanted to become more than average? What if you wanted to excel to greater heights in your relationships and workplace? What would it take to be a cut above? What would you need to do to perform above average?
Well, letâs take a look at what makes someone truly exceptional.
Show up!
One thing people do who perform at above average levels is to show up. It seems like such a simple thing to do – but think about it. How many times have you counted on someone to do something, and they didnât show up? Average people often intend to show up for the job, the event or other situation they have agreed to take on but then cancel commitments or donât realize the extent of what was expected of them. By showing up on a regular basis, you are already on a path of being above average. Knowing that people can rely on you to be there when you said you would makes a huge difference.
Actor William Shatner stated,
âAny success I have had began by my showing up on time, being prepared, and doing the best possible job.â
Showing up for yourself is important too. For example, if you wanted to learn a new skill, you would need to show up on a regular basis for practice or training. People who are above average at things like playing an instrument or a sport, or developing superior business skills, show up to do the work they need to do in order to accomplish their goal.
In communities, when there is work to be done, or policies that need to be decided, it takes people to get together and make plans. It takes people who can commit to a greater cause. Above average people donât just sit back and let someone else do it. They get involved. The world is run by people who show up.
Perform Consistently
Sometimes people get lucky and achieve something surprisingly great without too much effort. Everyone cheers their success and they are on the top of the worldâŚuntil theyâre not. There is a saying, âEvery 24 hours the world rolls over on someone whoâs sitting on top of it.â Regardless of what you may have achieved, your efforts are likely to be outshined by the next great thing that comes along if thatâs all you have. People who are above average donât stop at one success. In fact, they are usually motivated and inspired to get on to the next project. You canât be satisfied with past achievements. Yes, youâve done some stuff, but what have you done lately?
Some musical artists donât display their gold records because they donât want to see themselves as having âmade it.â By not dwelling on what theyâve already achieved, they are driven to look toward their next masterpiece. Above average people keep looking for new mountains to climb.
âSuccess doesnât come from what you do occasionally, but what you do consistentlyâ,
– Marie Forleo
Above average people are able to continually produce quality work. They can be relied on to not only finish a job, but create something original and exceptional again and again. Above average people deliver on a regular basis and always aim to hit the mark. They donât settle for mediocre. They know their worth and expect to do their best work every time.
Attention to Detail
The average person does their job. To perform above average, details matter. For example, completing a task is a basic skill. Checking to be sure things are correct, organized, and done efficiently demonstrates above average ability.
Anticipating the wants or needs of others can also show attention to detail. While looking at a situation, think about what might come up, and be prepared to respond. When youâre at a restaurant, isnât it nice when the waiter fills up your water glass without you having to ask, has a pleasant conversation with you, or offers a menu suggestion that makes your experience more enjoyable, rather than just doing the minimum requirement of their job? By going the extra mile you show people you care about their needs. Whether you are creating a pleasurable dining experience or a top level presentation to a business firm, showing that you are prepared, knowledgeable, capable and respectful of peopleâs time and interests, shows you are performing at an above average level.
Business man Sebastian Barbarito said it like this,
âThe difference between mediocrity and excellence is attention to detail.â
The Best Version of You
To perform at above average capacity, youâll also need to take care of yourself. By getting regular exercise, restful sleep, and eating healthy foods, you can be ready to take on your tasks with energy and clarity. Author Jules Robson said,
âLove yourself enough to live a healthy lifestyle.â
To do above average work you need to be physically and mentally at your best.
When you are healthy, you feel good. And when you feel good you can do more, think more and be more. By prioritizing your own health, and respecting your own needs and goals, you open doors to achieving above average accomplishments.
When you take care of yourself, you exemplify self respect. You teach others how to treat you by allowing behaviors that support your best self image, and respect your boundaries.
Be an Expert
Another thing that above average people do, is to be top-notch in whatever it is they choose to do. For example, if you want to fly an airplane, acquire the knowledge and training needed, then go a little bit further. Hone your skills, study the details about aircrafts and practice more than you have to. Work on your soft skills like communication and teamwork. Make a list of what qualities you believe someone should have to be an Airplane Pilot. And then develop those qualities in yourself.
By learning everything you can about whatever it is you want to do, you move into the above average category. If you have the resources and put in the time to be the best at what youâre doing, others may look to you as a professional in your field. Read books, watch videos, take classes or talk with a mentor to find what you need to know.
Philosopher Matthew Ferrara said,
âThe average salesperson commission rate only matters if you are an average salesperson.â
Look above the average statistics. Look above the average expectation and you may find another level to strive for. Think about what the âabove averageâ numbers would look like. When you develop more skills and information you might find yourself producing âabove averageâ work that reaps âabove averageâ benefits.
Keep Going
It can be easy at times to be discouraged and give up on your goals. At the very least you may be tempted to just do the minimum amount to get by. But if you truly desire to perform above average, then you canât quit. People who strive to reach their highest goals never give in to being just average. Singer Songwriter Taylor Swift once said,
âIâm intimidated by the fear of being average.â
When you find the drive and passion to be above average, it propels you forward to keep going even when times get tough.
By being dependable, consistently showing a high level of competency and paying attention to detail you will be well on your way to performing above average. A healthy lifestyle and staying informed of current information and practices may help you to reach the goals you have set for yourself.
Donât compare yourself to others. Just be the best version of you. Author Oscar Wilde wrote,
âBe yourself: Everyone else is already taken.â
You donât need to take anyone down to move yourself up. Itâs not about beating out the competition, itâs about constantly reaching for and challenging your own personal best. And when you do that, youâre already above average.
