Have you ever wondered why some people manage to do amazing things, while others stay in the same place? It’s not just about hard work or luck; it often comes down to how people think. To get above-average results, you need to break away from average thinking.
In this article, we’ll explore what “average thinking” really means, why it limits you, and how adopting a different mindset can lead to amazing achievements. By the end, you’ll have a few simple tools to help you step up your thinking and see better results in whatever you’re trying to accomplish.
You cannot achieve results above average with average thinking.
What Is Average Thinking?
“Average thinking” is pretty much doing things the same way everyone else does – following routines, sticking to what feels safe, and not taking many risks. People who think this way often rely on methods that are tried and true, and they might hesitate to change or try new ideas.
So, how can you spot average thinking? Here are some signs:
- Doing things the “normal” way without asking if there’s a better way
- Avoiding risks, even if they could lead to something great
- Lacking curiosity or not feeling interested in learning new things
Why do people fall into this pattern? Well, it’s comfortable. It’s safe. Society often rewards us for following the rules and staying in line. But if you want results that stand out, you have to think in ways that stand out too.
The Downsides of Average Thinking
There are some big problems with thinking this way, and they can hold you back in life:
- You Don’t Grow as Much: If you’re not challenging yourself, you’re not really learning or improving. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.
- Your Results Are Predictable: When you stick to the same methods, you often end up with results that look just like everyone else’s.
- Opportunities Pass You By: If you’re too afraid to try something new, you might miss out on amazing chances – in work, relationships, or even personal hobbies.
To do things that make a real impact, you need to start thinking in ways that go beyond the usual and break free from this pattern.
Redefining Above-Average Thinking
So, what does it mean to think above average? People who achieve great things share a few qualities:
- They Want to Grow: These people are always looking to learn something new or find ways to improve.
- They’re Okay with Taking Risks: They’re not reckless, but they’re willing to try new things, even if there’s a chance they might fail.
- They Think Creatively: They look for fresh ideas and aren’t afraid to challenge what’s normal.
Think about people like Steve Jobs or Elon Musk – they didn’t get to where they are by playing it safe. They took risks, and sometimes they failed, but that’s also why they succeeded. When you’re willing to look at things differently, you’re more likely to find a path that leads to real breakthroughs.
How to Break Free from Average Thinking
Here are a few simple steps to start thinking in ways that go beyond the usual:
- Work on a Growth Mindset:
- Set Big Goals: Pick goals that feel challenging, not just the easy ones.
- Learn from Mistakes: Instead of avoiding failure, look at it as a way to learn and grow.
- Stay Curious and Keep Learning:
- Always Be Learning: Read books, watch videos, or take courses to keep adding to your knowledge.
- Talk to Different People: Spend time with people who think differently than you. It’ll open your mind to new ideas.
- Get Creative and Challenge Yourself:
- Question the Norm: Ask yourself why things are done a certain way. Could it be done better?
- Try New Ideas: Brainstorm often and don’t be afraid to try things, even if they seem a bit out there.
- Take Smart Risks:
- Try New Things: Even small changes can help you get comfortable with risk.
- Learn to Bounce Back: Remember that failure is just another step towards success. Taking risks builds resilience.
Real-Life Examples
Sometimes it’s helpful to look at examples. Here are a few stories of people who went beyond average thinking:
- Netflix: They started as a DVD rental service but shifted to streaming just as people’s habits were changing. That shift made them one of the biggest names in entertainment today.
- Career Change: Think of someone who left a stable job to follow their passion – like starting a business, writing a book, or learning a new skill. They took a risk, and often it pays off with a happier, more fulfilled life.
- Social Change: Some nonprofits or social enterprises achieve huge impact because they try new ideas instead of following old methods. By breaking out of the norm, they help more people in meaningful ways.
These stories show that extraordinary results don’t happen by playing it safe; they happen when you’re willing to step out of the comfort zone.
The Benefits of Thinking Above Average
Why does all of this matter? Because thinking above average comes with some big benefits:
- You’ll Grow: Personal and professional growth comes naturally when you push your limits.
- New Doors Open: Thinking differently often leads to unique opportunities that you wouldn’t have seen otherwise.
- Greater Satisfaction: Doing something unique, something that’s yours, brings a deep sense of pride and fulfillment.
To sum it up, if you’re aiming for above-average results, average thinking won’t get you there. Push yourself to question the norm, keep learning, and embrace risks. Start small, but keep pushing. Great things are within your reach – you just have to be willing to think in ways that set you apart.