Many people think they are unique. Special. Different. Above average.
I used to think this way myself. But life had taught me that I’m not so special. In fact, I am mostly average.
- Average looks – I am not incredibly attractive nor repulsive
- Average work ethic – I thought I worked harder than almost anyone – until I worked with people who worked harder and longer than I did.
- Average sense of humor – I am not as wickedly sardonic and funny as I used to think I was.
I am legitimately above average in a few areas:
- Intelligence, ability to solve math and word problems, focus, perseverance/determination (likely I was born this way)
- Fitness – Due to my lifelong obsession and daily practice, I am far fitter than most people.
- Sales Ability and Management Skills – I sucked at both of these but improved significantly over my 30 year career.
- Frugality – I’m quite frugal and have designed a low cost lifestyle that has enabled me to retire at 50.
- Love/Loyalty/Commitment – Many people would have bailed on my wife and her kids rather than sticking by them through our many challenges. I did not.
I am below average in other areas:
- Casual socializing
- Making long lasting friendships
- Being silly
- Being flexible (not physically but socially)
Mostly though, like everyone, I’m an ordinary average guy.
- I get hit badly by the flu every 10 years or so even though I get a yearly vaccine.
- I struggle with diet at times and have gained weight as I got older.
- My chances of getting Covid, a hernia or cancer are the same as everyone’s. My odds and no better or worse than anyone else.
- I’m a widower who isn’t dating* and lives alone. Just like most of the other widowers I know.
As much as I like to think of myself as special, I’m not that unique except for a few key areas that are important to me That has turned out to be perfectly fine.
Update December 2021: I am dating again. I have my first date this week!