On being extraordinary

The performing artist stands in front of a crowd of strangers every night, singing, acting and dancing.

To them, it’s a way of connecting with an audience and seeking to create change. To mere mortals who reserve their tone-deaf singing for the shower, it’s unfathomable, brave and inspiring.

The surgeon cuts people open every day, repairing broken bones, ligaments and organs.

To them, it’s how they help others in need. To the rest of us, it’s undoubtedly magic science reserved for the super intelligent.

The writer sits down every single day, opens up their laptop and creates stories that change the culture.

To them, it’s how they help others (and themselves) make sense of the world. To those of us who struggled to hit a 2,000-word count at University, it’s the most admirable thing we can contemplate.

The 55kg female deadlifts 2 times her bodyweight for reps.

To her, it’s how she stays fit, strong and healthy. To those of us who make weird noises when we bend over to put our socks on, it’s a feat of strength straight out of a Marvel comic.

All of this to say:

What’s ordinary to you is extraordinary to me.

Instead of comparing ourselves to everyone and focussing on where we fall short, what if we paused to consider what we do every single day, that most others wouldn’t dream of? What is it that makes us extraordinary? And how might we lean into it?

(If you’re not sure, ask 5 friends).