What it feels like being better than average, but not great.

I've felt for a long time that I'm pretty good, dare I say better than average, at most of the areas I focus on, but never quite amazing. For those of you in similar shoes, you know this is a blessing and a curse.

On the bright side, you're better than average at something you care about. I'm going to use vertical jump as an example because I've been obsessing about it for a couple of years. I'm 41 years old and have a 29" full approach vertical. I've been working on the damn thing for about two years with great coaching, consistent effort, high intensity, and creatine. I spend a lot of time and money on jumping.

Here's what ChatGPT says about average vertical jumps.

📌 These are estimates based on data from sports combines, training databases (e.g., Just Fly Sports, VertCode, PJF Performance), and research studies. Recreational athletes usually fall below D1/pro levels, even when training seriously.

Where do I stack up?? You bet ya, "Better than Average!".

So, what are the benefits of being better than average? Sadly, nothing comes to mind so I had to ask ChatGPT! Here's what GPT said (with my commentary added in italics):

✅ Real Benefits of Being Better Than Average (But Not Amazing)

1. You stand out just enough to be noticed
   You may not be the star of the show, but people remember you as “that dad who actually plays hard at pickup.” You earn low-key respect.

This is so true. I get a lot of comments about how well I move. It's somewhat rewarding, but the low-key respect kind of niggles at you. It's like, hey, you move well, but you aren't really that good.

2. You get access to better experiences
You're good enough to play with higher-level athletes. You don’t get cut from the good games. You’re in the “A” group, even if you're not the alpha.

Fair point and a good reminder that those of us who are better than average, but not great need to be grateful.

3. You get most of the rewards, none of the pressure
You can enjoy the fun—dunking, competing, being in shape—without the constant pressure of having to maintain “elite” status.

Damn it! Why didn't I think of this? Maybe I am ungrateful. It is nice to not have the pressure--although I wouldn't really know because I've never had it.

4. You’re underestimated—until you’re not
People might assume you're average… until you explode off the ground and grab a rebound. That surprise factor is a little addictive.

Agreed.

5. You appreciate improvement more
Every inch gained means something. You know what it took to go from 25" to 29", and that climb gives you more personal meaning than if you were just born with a 40" bounce.

This might be true, but I think I would enjoy being born with a 40" bounce more.

☹️Okay, now let's move to why being an above-averager is kind of sucky.

1. You're close enough to taste the dream, but never quite experience it.

You know how this feels if you're an above-averager. You see the elite doing elite things, and it looks amazing, and you're working your ass off, but can't quite do what they do!

2. Nobody takes your concerns and struggles seriously.

The average and below average just tell you that you're doing better than average and therefore, by definition, nothing is wrong. They wonder what you're complaining about!

The elite simply can't understand you and assume you're slacking. I swear if they tell me to read Atomic Habits one more time, I'm going to murder them. I've read the book, taken copious notes, and have great habits. Those habits have made me above average!

Your fellow above-averagers bury their heads in the sand and don't talk about it. My fellow above-averagers, we need to unite and form an above-averager therapy group! Above-averagers are people too!

3. You form a sense of malaise for life and wonder if you are doomed to above-average mediocrity.

During your life, you have figured out how to be above average at the things you are about, which is great. However, after continuously failing to achieve greatness, you lose steam and feel mired in mediocrity.

4. You feel guilty about complaining about being above average.

You realize that you sound entitled when you complain about being above average. Often this means that you suffer in silence. The truth is that progress is exciting and being above average is often accompanied with a lack of progress.

5. You're not inspiring or impactful.

No one gasps at above average. Nobody is really inspired by the person who is pretty good. This kind of leaves you wondering if you've made any real impact despite putting in a lot of work.

6. You feel stuck in performance purgatory

You're not bad enough to justify giving up. You're not great enough to break through. Welcome to the plateau zone.

7. You don’t have an excuse

You’re not genetically cursed. You’re not lazy. So why can’t you make the leap? This question haunts you.