Mediocrity Isn't a Strategy or Skill Set

You've got to keep pushing the limits of your creativity and skill set.

I keep running into photographers who seem to think mediocrity is a strategy. After all, taking risks is dangerous and what if things don't work out the way you want? Sound familiar?

Mediocrity isn't a strategy - it's a lifestyle, created mostly in the minds of people who don't believe in themselves and therefore simply take the middle of the road, the safest path. Well, the truth is, it's not the safest path. In fact, I love the title of a book by Jim Hightower...

                             "There's Nothing in the Middle of the Road but Yellow Stripes and Dead Armadillos"

Look, I don't mean to sound like I'm lecturing this morning, but it is Sunday morning and you chose to be here reading this post and I am older than most of you. (Oh, it hurts to admit that. LOL)  In theory, at least, that means I should have gained a little wisdom from my mistakes. 


So, let's stop the quest for mediocrity as artists and business people. Let's take a few risks. Let's stop doing the same thing every day, because it's safe and comfortable. You need to mix up your game, change what you're doing now and then, and yes, I am speaking from experience.  I spent years of my career working for other companies, but I wasn't as happy as I am now. And, while some days are scary as hell, nothing changes the satisfaction at the end of the day when an idea works out. When it doesn't, I've simply learned what won't work and get energized to tackle the idea from a different direction.

Think about some of the people we all respect most in this industry and every time you'll see they're risk takers. They take ownership for their actions and are constantly trying something new, building something different and forcing us all to not accept limitations.

"Don't bunt. Aim out of the ball park. Aim for the company of immortals."
David Ogilvy

As always, wishing you guys a terrific Sunday and one filled with lots of love, family, friends, a few really good hugs and a day that's anything but mediocre!

Photo Credit: © TSUNG-LIN WU - Fotolia.com