I’ve found myself hearing a theme lately at conferences, workshops, meetings and even in conversations with my colleagues, and that theme is focused on becoming extraordinary. Whether you use the term extraordinary, excellent, amazing or whatever suits you, it is about the desire to go beyond the ordinary and do something (or many things) great. At one conference I recently attended, they keynote speaker shared a phrase that stuck with me… “Average is over” and I think he hit the nail on the head. Extraordinary also doesn’t have to apply to just one area of your life – it can be extraordinary at home, as a parent, as a spouse, in your career, through your volunteer work or in another area of your life. Extraordinary is about raising the bar and delivering your “best work” in every area of your life.

I am passionate about the subject because I believe everyone has the ability to become extraordinary. However, I was trying to summarize the underlying message in all the books I’ve read, speakers I’ve listened to and conversations I’ve had and there is no doubt about it – it is tough to do. There are literally thousands of ways to become extraordinary, but when you get to the heart of it, there are two things that are consistent – it has to be intentional and it will likely take hard work. It won’t fall on your lap, knock at your door or hit you over the head. It’s about a plan… a plan to take your life to the next level and do something great. Life is short and none of us know just how short ours is, so the longer you spend pondering what path to take or opportunities to pursue, the clock is ticking. Every day requires you to make a conscious decision (and action!) to move one step closer to extraordinary.

How are you living today with intention to further your journey to become extraordinary?