comfortable with mediocrity
In my career I invested a lot of time in an effort to be good at my job. Perhaps, too much. My sense of identity was closely tied to my work. People knew me as, "Jeff -- the principal at Willis Junior High School." I like to believe that I did my job relatively well, focusing on the things that mattered most--the kids. When I retired at the end of last school year, the district hired my replacement, the school moved on (as they should), and I am no longer known as "the principal."
So where does that leave me? What gives me a purpose and sense of identity now that I am no longer an educator?
I'm decent at writing, but not a writer.
I love spending time in nature, but I'm not an outdoorsman.
I am creative, but not an artist.
I have an eye for photography, but I'm not a photographer.
I grow some plants, but I'm not a gardener.
I go fishing, but I'm not a fisherman.
This is to say, none of these things truly define me. I realize skill levels in any given pursuit are measured on a wide spectrum. In most pursuits, I tend to be somewhere in the space between beginner and mediocrity. In the past, that would have bothered me. I would have wanted to be great -- or at least good. Not anymore.
Right now, I am comfortable with average (or less). Becoming an expert, or excellent, at anything takes a significant investment of time and energy. Honestly, there is so much I want to do, and so little time. I'd rather enjoy a variety of interests and activities than invest an inordinate amount of time in a single pursuit. I'm good with being a master of mediocrity.
So, what gives me purpose and a sense of identity? That comes from volunteering, being kind, and helping where I can. That matters to me. That is what I hope defines me. Everything else I do keeps me balanced and mentally healthy. Even, if my skills are only average.
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