There’s lots of talented, hard working people out there who succeed. Find them and get inspired by them. That said, life isn’t always fair. We all know this, but it’s still a tough pill to swallow when you see someone who’s less talented, less driven, and frankly, less interesting, zooming past you on the road to success. They’re getting the promotions, the praise, the recognition - and there you are, working your tail off, wondering what you’re doing wrong.

Here’s the harsh reality: sometimes, mediocre people will be more successful than you. They might know the right people, be in the right place at the right time, or just have a knack for playing the game. It’s frustrating, it’s unfair, and it’s real. But here’s the kicker - none of that should stop you from doing what you’re meant to do.

Why Mediocrity Often Wins

Let’s be honest: success doesn’t always go to the brightest, hardest-working, or most creative person in the room. If it did, the world would look very different. Instead, success – at least as the world often defines it – has more to do with navigating systems, understanding social dynamics, and, let’s face it, being in the right place at the right time.

Mediocre people might not be conventionally brilliant, but they’re great at the parts of life that aren’t about brilliance or innovation. They might be networking wizards, able to schmooze their way into the right circles. Or maybe they’ve mastered the art of self-promotion, ensuring their “okay-ness” gets interpreted as “exceptional” by sheer repetition. Think about it: if you tell people you’re amazing often enough, eventually someone’s going to believe you. Look at the American politics just now.

And then there’s the comfort zone factor. Mediocre people thrive in environments that reward predictability. They play by the rules, don’t rock the boat, and excel at doing what’s expected of them. They’re the human equivalent of plain toast – safe, dependable, and highly palatable to systems that don’t like surprises.

Meanwhile, the innovators and challengers are out here throwing curveballs, questioning norms, and generally being unpredictable – and let’s be honest, that makes a lot of people nervous.

Do It Anyway

So where does that leave you—the person who’s passionate, talented, and willing to push boundaries? It leaves you with a choice. You can let the unfairness of it all sap your motivation, or you can keep going, keep striving, and keep doing the work that matters to you.

Here’s why you should do it anyway:

1. Success Isn’t the Only Metric

Sure, the world might define success in terms of titles, money, and public recognition. But that’s not the only way to measure a life well-lived. What about fulfilment? What about the joy of creating something meaningful, the satisfaction of staying true to your values, or the pride in knowing you’ve made a difference in someone’s life?

Success, as it’s commonly understood, is fleeting. But the impact you have through your work, your relationships, and your contributions – that’s lasting. So, even if the mediocre rise faster, the depth and meaning you create in your life and the lives of others is what truly counts.

2. Authenticity is Your Superpower

In a world full of mediocrity, authenticity stands out. It might not always get you the quickest wins, but it’s what builds lasting connections and real influence. People are drawn to those who are genuine, who bring their full selves to the table, and who aren’t afraid to be different.

By being true to yourself and your values, you’re playing a longer game. It might take more time, and it might come with more challenges, but the rewards are deeper and more meaningful. Your authenticity is your superpower – don’t trade it for the hollow promise of quick success.

3. The World Needs What You Have to Offer

The world doesn’t need more mediocrity. It needs innovation, creativity, passion, and people who are willing to take risks. It needs individuals who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo, who see beyond the conventional, and who are driven by something greater than just personal gain.

You might not always be rewarded for your efforts in the traditional sense, but that doesn’t mean your work isn’t valuable. In fact, it’s often the people who refuse to settle for mediocrity who make the most significant impact – whether or not they’re ever fully recognised for it.

4. Resilience and Perseverance Matter

Success might come easily to some, but for others, it’s a longer, tougher road. And while that might seem discouraging, it’s also what builds resilience. The challenges you face, the setbacks you endure, and the persistence you develop along the way – these are the things that shape you into someone who’s not just successful, but truly capable.

Mediocre people might win some rounds, but it’s those who persevere, who keep going even when the odds are against them, who ultimately make the biggest difference. Resilience isn’t just about enduring—it’s about growing stronger and more determined with each challenge you face.

5. Your Journey is Yours Alone

Lastly, remember that your journey is yours alone. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, especially when it feels like they’re getting ahead with less effort or less talent. But the comparison is a trap. Everyone’s path is different, and what works for someone else might not be what’s right for you.

Instead of focusing on where others are, focus on where you’re going. Define success on your own terms, and don’t let the seeming success of others diminish your achievements. Your journey is unique, and it’s leading you exactly where you’re meant to be.

The Upside (Yes, There’s One)

The thing about mediocrity winning is that it doesn’t have to mean the game is rigged. It just means the rules are set up to reward certain behaviours – and knowing that can be incredibly freeing. Once you realise the world doesn’t always value genius or creativity, you can stop waiting for external validation and start playing your own game.

So, here’s the takeaway: if you’re feeling like mediocrity is winning, it’s not because you’re failing. It’s because the system wasn’t designed to reward what makes you extraordinary. That’s fine. Be extraordinary anyway.

Because while mediocrity might win at playing it safe, it’s the risk-takers, the rule-breakers, and the boat-rockers who leave a mark. Toast is nice, but no great story ever started with a toast. 😉