The Power of an Ordinary Life: Why Being “Enough” Is More Than Okay
In a world fixated on greatness, the idea of being average can feel like a quiet failure. From the moment we step into school, we’re taught to strive—not just to learn or grow, but to excel. Gold stars, honor rolls, and "most likely to succeed" superlatives set the tone early. And it doesn’t stop there. Whether it’s chasing promotions, building the perfect relationship, or crafting the most aesthetically pleasing Instagram grid, society constantly tells us: stand out or get left behind.
But maybe we’ve misunderstood what makes a life meaningful. Maybe it’s not the spotlight that brings us peace, but the ability to live with integrity, connection, and self-acceptance—even if no one’s watching.
When “Average” Became a Dirty Word
Once upon a time, being average was just that—average. A midpoint. A foundation. Something you could build from without shame. But slowly, "average" got a rebrand, and not in a good way. Now it’s equated with mediocrity, laziness, or failure. That quiet C+ has become something to hide, rather than a stepping stone.
Today’s culture is drenched in exceptionalism. Kids are enrolled in enrichment classes before they can read. Teenagers are expected to maintain straight A’s, participate in five extracurriculars, lead a club, and still somehow sleep eight hours. College students feel behind if they haven’t already launched a business or gone viral.
The result? An entire generation growing up with the idea that simply doing well isn’t enough.
This creeping pressure doesn’t stop when we reach adulthood. Suddenly we’re not just working—we’re optimizing. We must be ultra-productive, fit, well-traveled, financially savvy, and emotionally intelligent, all while maintaining “perfect” relationships and work-life balance.
But who set this impossible standard? And why do we keep chasing it, even when it exhausts us?
The Illusion of Constant Upgrades
Much of this stress stems from social media and hustle culture. Our feeds overflow with highlight reels of people who seem to have it all figured out—six-figure incomes at 25, luxury vacations, dream marriages, and clean minimalist homes. We rarely see the messy kitchen, the unwashed hair, or the quiet anxiety in between.
We compare our in-progress, unfiltered lives to their curated ones—and we always come up short.
But here’s the truth: behind every “perfect” post is a real person with real struggles. And many of the most beautiful moments in life—the ones that shape us, soothe us, and bring us peace—never make it to Instagram.
Finding Beauty in the Unremarkable
There’s a quiet kind of magic in the lives we often overlook. It’s in the teacher who shows up every day for her students. The nurse who comforts patients with small talk and warm hands. The janitor who keeps things clean with care and pride. The grocery store clerk who remembers your name.
These people rarely receive accolades or headlines, but their consistency, presence, and kindness build the backbone of our communities. Their lives might seem “average” on paper, but their impact is profound.
Being average doesn’t mean being uninspired—it means finding contentment where you are. It means knowing that your worth isn’t measured by productivity, popularity, or perfection.
There is deep dignity in showing up, loving others, and simply doing your best—even when no one is clapping.
The Mental Health Cost of Chasing Greatness
The constant pressure to be exceptional doesn’t just create stress—it chips away at our mental health. Many people silently battle anxiety, burnout, imposter syndrome, and depression while putting on a brave face for the world. Why? Because admitting you're not "living your best life" feels like failure.
But perfection is an illusion. And chasing it only pushes us further from ourselves.
In fact, trying to be everything—everywhere, all at once—often leads to isolation. If we’re too busy chasing status, we forget to nurture what actually fulfills us: connection, rest, peace, and purpose.
When we finally pause, we often find that what we’re truly craving isn’t applause—it’s acceptance.
What If a “Good Life” Is a Simple Life?
Imagine redefining success on your own terms. Not by how much you produce or how far you travel, but by how deeply you feel. How well you sleep. How often you laugh.
A good life might look like a steady job that covers the bills, time with loved ones, a walk in the park, and the ability to be kind to yourself—even when you’re not “crushing it.”
It might look like quiet Friday nights, inside jokes with your best friend, cooking dinner while your favorite playlist hums in the background. No awards. No applause. Just peace.
There’s nothing wrong with ambition—but it should serve your values, not strip them away. And it’s okay if your life doesn’t look like a TED Talk or a magazine cover.
Because you don’t need to be remarkable to be deeply valuable.
Radical Self-Acceptance in a Performative World
Choosing to embrace your “averageness” is a radical act in a society addicted to performance. It means letting go of the need to impress, the fear of missing out, and the toxic idea that you must always be improving.
It’s not about giving up—it’s about grounding yourself in what matters.
You are not a project to be fixed. You are a person to be cared for.
And it’s in this care—this gentleness with yourself—that a new version of self-worth begins to emerge. One that isn’t rooted in comparison or competition, but in compassion and connection.
What This Means During High-Stress Times Like Election Season
During seasons of political unrest or high-stakes elections, the pressure to be “informed,” vocal, or socially active can feel overwhelming. There’s an unspoken expectation to have strong opinions, take constant action, and stay emotionally engaged with every headline.
But here’s the thing: your mental health still matters—especially now.
You are allowed to unplug. You are allowed to care deeply without drowning in information. And you are allowed to step away to protect your peace.
Sometimes, choosing to rest and care for your emotional well-being is the most revolutionary thing you can do. It’s okay if you’re not out protesting or constantly debating. It’s okay if your contribution right now is just surviving and supporting your inner circle.
Your “average” efforts to stay grounded and kind matter more than you know.
Struggling with election stress or overwhelmed by societal pressure to do more, be more, and feel more? You're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
Walk With Me Counseling Center in Chicago, Illinois is here to help. We offer virtual therapy sessions across the state, so whether you're in the heart of Chicago or anywhere else in Illinois, support is just a click away.
Complete our Intake Form today and take that first step toward protecting your mental health during this intense election season.
Your peace matters. Your worth is not measured by how exceptional you appear—but by how deeply you care for yourself and those around you. Let us help you reconnect with that truth.
