Let’s talk about mediocrity.

It’s an interesting concept. Some people strive for greatness, others seem content with just getting by.

As a psychology enthusiast, I’ve noticed that what differentiates these two groups is often what they find impressive.

You see, mediocre individuals, according to psychology, often find certain things impressive that high achievers just don’t.

And I’m not talking about being impressed by the latest tech gadget or a viral TikTok video – it goes much deeper than that.

This isn’t about putting anyone down, but rather shedding light on how our perceptions can influence our drive and ambition.

So, let’s get started, shall we?

1) Status symbols

Let’s start with something we’re all familiar with – status symbols.

These can be anything from expensive cars and designer clothes to high-end tech gadgets.

For many mediocre individuals, the acquisition of these items is seen as an achievement, a marker of success.

But here’s the thing that psychology tells us: high achievers don’t get impressed by material possessions as symbols of success.

As the renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, “A first-rate soup is better than a second-rate painting.”

This quote might sound a bit quirky, but it hits the nail on the head.

It’s not about the flashy exterior, but about the quality of your work and the depth of your character.

Truly impressive people understand this. They know that real success isn’t defined by what you own but by who you are and what you do.

While a fancy car might turn heads in the street, it doesn’t necessarily impress those who are genuinely successful.

High achievers tend to look beyond the surface and value authenticity, effort, and personal growth – things that money can’t buy.

In other words, chasing after status symbols is just one way to reveal a mediocre mindset.

2) Social media popularity

Remember when I posted a picture of my weekend hike on Instagram? I was genuinely excited to share the breathtaking view from the top.

But, to my surprise, the post got fewer likes than a throwback picture of me at a popular music festival.

It got me thinking – why is it that social media popularity is so impressive to some people?

You see, mediocre people often measure worth by the number of likes, shares and followers on social media.

They see popularity on these platforms as a sign of success, and this outlook is what sets them apart from high achievers.

As Carl Jung, the famous Swiss psychiatrist, once said, “The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.”

High achievers understand that worth isn’t defined by external validation but by authenticity and personal growth.

They know that while social media can be a great tool for connection and even business growth, using it as a measure of personal worth or success is a slippery slope.

While social media can give us access to an audience we might not have otherwise, it’s not the be-all and end-all measure of success or impressiveness.

3) Others’ perceptions

Have you ever found yourself changing your behavior or opinions based on what you think others will find impressive?

If so, you’re not alone. It’s a common trap that mediocre people often fall into – being overly concerned with others’ perceptions.

It’s a raw truth. People who are driven by what others think tend to oscillate between states of external validation and self-doubt.

They mold their actions and choices around the perceived opinions of others, often at the expense of their own authenticity.

To quote the renowned psychologist, Sigmund Freud, “Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.”

High achievers understand the importance of this honesty.

They recognize that it’s more essential to be true to oneself than to seek approval from others.

While it’s natural to care about how we’re perceived, letting it dictate our choices and actions can stunt our growth and keep us in a state of mediocrity.

High achievers know that real impressiveness comes from authenticity, not pretense.

4) Overemphasis on luck

Next on our list is the overemphasis on luck.

Many mediocre individuals often attribute success to luck more than to hard work, skill, or determination.

Those who work hard, continually learn and grow, and seize opportunities when they arise are more likely to be successful.

High achievers understand this concept and don’t rely on luck to pave their path to success.

While it’s okay to acknowledge the role of luck in certain situations, attributing all success to it can be a sign of a mediocre mindset.

Preparation and hard work are often the real keys to impressiveness and success.

5) Fear of failure

Let’s talk about failure. Growing up, I was terrified of it. A simple mistake or a bad grade would send me spiraling.

It took me years to realize that failure isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but rather an opportunity for growth.

Mediocre people often see failure as an end, something to be avoided at all costs.

High achievers, on the other hand, understand that failure is part of the journey to success.

As the renowned psychologist Carl Rogers said, “The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change.”

This quote profoundly resonates with me because it highlights that learning and growing often involve making mistakes and facing failures.

High achievers embrace this concept and see failure as a stepping stone towards improvement and eventual success.

They know that the fear of failure can be a barrier to taking risks and trying new things, which are critical for personal and professional growth.

While it’s natural to fear failure, don’t let it hold you back from reaching your full potential.

6) Comfort zone complacency

This might seem counterintuitive, but hear me out. Being comfortable is not always a good thing.

In fact, those who stay in their comfort zones often miss out on growth opportunities.

Mediocre people find comfort zones impressive.

They appreciate the predictability and safety that come with sticking to what they know.

But high achievers understand that real growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones.

Remember what Albert Einstein, the genius physicist who also had deep insights into human nature, once said: “A ship is always safe at the shore, but that is not what it is built for.”

High achievers resonate with this sentiment.

They know that to truly excel and experience life to the fullest, they need to take risks and embrace the unknown.

While comfort zones can feel safe and familiar, they can also limit our potential.

Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from exploring new opportunities and reaching for greatness.

7) Short-term gains

Lastly, mediocre people often focus on short-term gains rather than long-term growth.

They’re impressed by quick wins, even if they don’t contribute to their overall goals.

Contrarily, high achievers understand that true success requires patience and persistence.

As the famous psychologist Angela Duckworth said, “Grit is sticking with your future, day in, day out.”

Real success doesn’t happen overnight.

It’s the result of consistent effort over time.

Final thoughts

When all is said and done, what we find impressive says a lot about who we are and where we’re headed.

Mediocrity isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it can be limiting if we let it define us.

As we’ve discovered, the things mediocre people find impressive often reflect a mindset that prioritizes comfort, external validation, and short-term gains over personal growth, authenticity, and long-term success.

High achievers understand that real impressiveness comes from within.

It’s about staying true to oneself, embracing failures as opportunities for growth, stepping out of comfort zones, and working hard towards long-term goals.

As you reflect on these insights, remember – what you find impressive is a choice.

And it’s this choice that can set you on the path to mediocrity or greatness.

Choose wisely. And remember, it’s never too late to redefine what impresses you.