I don't believe anyone
sets out in life to be mediocre, ordinary, or "common." Deep down, we
desire more than that, but all too often we give in to the weight of
social obligations, others' expectations, personal fears, and the allure
of low hanging fruit.

It goes without saying
that "settling" is the choice of least resistance and therefore, the
path of the common folk. But despite the odds, there are always some who
stand boldly in the face of life's challenges and temptations.  Not
surprisingly, they achieve the extraordinary and become exceptional

It's not difficult, nor
worthwhile, to list the ingredients of the common life. But it's always
beneficial to explore the anatomy of life's inspirational anomalies.  In
a few short minutes, I came up with 53 different, but complimentary,
factors of a remarkable person.

Among many things, being uncommon means...

1. Looking at the same things everyone else sees and thinking something different


2. Seeking adventure over comfort and convenience


3. Testing common assumptions


4. Nurturing relentless curiosity


5. Accepting responsibility


6. Understanding that reality is shaped by our perception of it


7. Keeping your word


8. Constantly learning


9. Noticing patterns


10. Leaning from losses


11. Eating right


12. Exiting your comfort zone regularly


13. Understanding that direction trumps distance


14. Seeking the unknown


15. Being resourceful


16. Understanding that failure is not trying


17. Creating opportunity, not waiting for it


18. Looking for value


19. Adding value


20. Asking, "Why?"


21. Asking, "Why not?"


22. Cultivating creativity


23. Seeking input from your opposites


24. Knowing what you stand for and what you don't. And then taking the stand


25. Letting go of the past to shape the future


26. Candidly and regularly assessing your actions and results


27. Knowing the difference between being busy and being productive


28. Taking one additional step when others don't


29. Understanding that motivation is temporary, but purpose is enduring


30. Asking for support


31. Understanding that the best defense is often listening


32. Appreciating victories, even the small ones


33. Resisting the urge to do what is easy over what is right


34. Choosing your battles


35. Working smart trumps working hard (But still being prepared to bust your ass)


36. Understanding that character is your best marketing


37. Sharing your time with those you care about


38. Embracing fear as a companion, not an enemy


39. Caring for your body, mind, and spirit (yes, all three)


40. Understanding that failure is a temporary event, not a trait


41. Saving and giving money


42. Traveling often


43. Being yourself


44. Beginning with the end in mind


45. Thinking locally and globally


46. Being immersed in the present, but vested in the future


47. Giving spontaneous compliments and consistent support


48. Creating something that outlives you


49. Being able to laugh at yourself, before passing judgment


50. Understanding that your beliefs precede our actions


51. Listening to feedback, but following your intuition


52. Caring (so much meaning in one word)


53. And most importantly... taking action towards the things that matter most to you

Now for the big question...What does being "uncommon" mean to you?

I sense this list could grow to be much, much longer.  I (and many other readers) would love to get your thoughts below.

Now I'm now off to China and then Singapore for some speaking engagements. Hope all is going well for you.  

Be uncommon,

- Kent

https://www.theuncommonlife.com/blog/