There’s a stark difference between living an ordinary life and an extraordinary one.
The difference boils down to fitting in versus standing out. Trying to fit in is the safe, predictably ordinary route, where you live according to others’ expectations and norms.
Living an extraordinary life, however, requires you to break from the mould, to stop trying to fit in, and instead, carve your own path.
In this article, I’ll share some insights on how to stop trying to fit in and start living an extraordinary life. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone.
1) Embrace uniqueness
There’s a certain allure to being ordinary, to blending in with the crowd. It’s comfortable, predictable and safe.
But extraordinary people know the value of standing out. They’re unafraid to be unique, to embrace their individuality and let it shine.
Consider the likes of Elon Musk or Oprah Winfrey. These are people who have dared to be different, to break from societal norms and expectations, and look where it has got them.
Being extraordinary means not being afraid to stand out. It means embracing your uniqueness and using it as a strength rather than a weakness.
So if you want to live an extraordinary life, start by accepting and celebrating your unique self. Don’t try to fit into someone else’s mould. Create your own.
But remember, this isn’t about being different for the sake of it. It’s about being true to who you really are.
2) Dare to be different
I remember a time in my life when I was constantly trying to fit in. Whether it was the clothes I wore, the music I listened to or even the career path I chose, everything was dictated by what was considered ‘normal’ or ‘acceptable’.
But then I realised that this wasn’t making me happy. In fact, it was stifling my creativity, my passion and my potential. So, I decided to make a change.
I began to explore what truly made me happy, what made me feel fulfilled. And it wasn’t always aligned with what society expected of me.
For instance, instead of pursuing a traditional corporate job, I decided to start my own business – something that was frowned upon by many.
But guess what? It turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. Not only did it give me the freedom and satisfaction that I craved, but it also allowed me to live an extraordinary life – one that was unique to me.
The moral of the story? Don’t be afraid to step off the beaten path. Dare to be different. Dare to live an extraordinary life.
3) Break free from societal norms
In a study conducted by Harvard Business School, it was found that people who deviate from the norm are perceived as having higher status and competency. This is because they’re seen as having the confidence and autonomy to challenge societal expectations.
In other words, breaking free from societal norms not only allows you to live an extraordinary life, but also enhances your image in the eyes of others.
So, don’t let societal norms confine you. Break free and chart your own path. It may be challenging at times, but the rewards are immense. You’ll not only be living an extraordinary life, but you’ll also be inspiring others to do the same.
4) Cultivate resilience
Living an extraordinary life is not without its challenges. When you choose to break away from the norm, you’re bound to face resistance and criticism. This is where resilience comes in.
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and maintain a positive outlook despite facing difficulties. It’s a vital trait for anyone looking to live an extraordinary life.
The good news is, resilience can be cultivated. It’s about developing a positive mindset, learning from your mistakes, and not letting failure deter you from your path.
So remember, the road to an extraordinary life may be tough, but with resilience, you can navigate any obstacle that comes your way.
5) Follow your passion
There’s something incredibly powerful about following your passion. It fuels your energy, ignites your spirit, and brings a sense of purpose to your life.
Many of us suppress our passions in order to fit into societal expectations. We choose careers and paths that are deemed “safe” or “practical”, often neglecting what truly sets our soul on fire.
But if you want to live an extraordinary life, you need to follow what makes your heart beat faster. It could be anything from painting to entrepreneurship, from writing to wildlife conservation.
When you pursue what you love, you not only enrich your own life but also make a positive impact on the world around you. You inspire others with your zest and enthusiasm.
So, don’t be afraid to follow your passion. It is the key that unlocks the door to an extraordinary life.
6) Embrace failure
I’ve always been a perfectionist. The idea of failing used to terrify me. I would go to great lengths to avoid making mistakes, and when I did, I would beat myself up about it.
But over time, I realized that failure is not the enemy. In fact, it’s an essential part of growth and success. It’s through our failures that we learn, adapt and improve.
When I started to see failure as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block, my perspective changed. I was more willing to take risks and step out of my comfort zone. And this led to some of the most extraordinary experiences of my life.
So, don’t shy away from failure. Embrace it. Learn from it. Let it guide you on your journey to living an extraordinary life.
7) Practice gratitude
In the pursuit of an extraordinary life, it’s easy to focus on what we don’t have or what we’re yet to achieve. But it’s just as important to appreciate what we already have.
Practicing gratitude helps us see the beauty in our everyday lives. It allows us to recognize and appreciate our blessings, no matter how small they may seem.
Whether it’s expressing thanks for a loving family, a fulfilling job, or a beautiful sunset, gratitude brings joy and richness to our lives.
So start a gratitude journal, say thanks more often, take time to appreciate the little things. You’ll be surprised at how this simple practice can transform your life from ordinary to extraordinary.
8) Be true to yourself
At the end of the day, living an extraordinary life comes down to one thing – being true to yourself.
It’s about embracing who you are, following your own path, and living according to your own rules.
It’s about not letting societal norms or other people’s expectations dictate how you live your life.
So always remember to stay true to yourself. It’s the most important step towards living an extraordinary life.
Final thoughts: It’s about authenticity
The journey towards an extraordinary life is deeply intertwined with our authenticity.
Renowned psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
The essence of living an extraordinary life lies in accepting and embracing our true selves. It’s about letting go of the need to fit in and daring to be different.
When we live authentically, we not only find contentment and fulfillment but also inspire those around us to do the same.
So as you ponder over the idea of an extraordinary life, remember this – it starts with being true to yourself. It’s about embracing your uniqueness, following your passions, and creating your own path.
Here’s to living an extraordinary life, one that’s authentically yours.
