Here at Ethos3, we believe it’s the few and far between who actively endeavor to be mediocre. Most seek decency, at least, and a lot of folks out there really are trying to be good or even great at what they do. Not everyone actually reaches those marks, but there’s something to be said for at least not wanting to be mediocre.
And yet, any of us who have been subjected to a presentation or two lately know that there is A LOT of mediocrity out there. If few are actively trying to be mediocre, why is it such a prevalent state of affairs when it comes to presentations?
It’s simple, really. Mediocrity is only the end result of a few non-pursuits. These non-pursuits are understandably attractive to people who, at times, might just feel a little tired, a little uninspired, a little unappreciated, etc. In other words, no one seeks out mediocrity, but it happens when we decide to take the easy road.
Here’s a simple recipe for mediocrity:
1. Add several years’ worth of status quo into a bowl. Do nothing.
2. Sprinkle in some cliches and assumptions. Don’t worry about freshness.
3. Slowly, with no emotion, enthusiasm, or passion, stare at the bowl.
This quick and easy three-step recipe will absolutely yield enough mediocrity for a small group of unfortunate audience members.
Of course, as you might imagine, a recipe for sensational performance is basically the opposite of the above. Throw out the status quo, lean not on cliches and assumptions, always concern yourself with the freshness of your ideas, and deliver every word, phrase and utterance with conviction and passion.
It’s your choice: will you choose excellence, or will you let mediocrity just happen to you?
Question: How do you keep your edge, even when the day-to-day invites complacency?
