Realisation I wish I had sooner (downfall of improving yourself)

[@Dragonmoon8526]

It's all about perspective. For example, someone who just plays video games for most of their free time could equal average. But, if they do it competitively or have a successful streaming channel . . . They turned their passion into something lucrative. The same can be said about a number of people and their hobbies, personal interests, or skills. But, does making money automatically equal success? What if someone choose a more domestic path, stay at home parent, or works an average part-time job so they can focus on their kids more. Or a single parent who works three jobs to afford a home, food, and utilities. Or that amazing athlete that has no interest in going pro, but just wants a college scholarship. And want to become a teacher. Fact is, there are a number of different paths in life. Average, successful, accomplished, popular, whatever, all these things are in a sense social constructs assumed by other people. While, at the same time, being things we feel internally. What you see as an average lifestyle. That person feels they're doing the best they can with what they have, and they feel pretty proud of themselves. So, agreed, not everyone is going to take the same path as you. Comparatively, there are those who are average. But, if you were compared to others that have greater success than you, yourself are average. That's not a criticism or an attack, just the simple fact that comparison is pointless. There's always someone worse or better off. Ranking others to yourself accomplishs nothing other than inflating or deflating your ego. So, yes, there are those who rise above and do amazing things with their life. Just because that amazing thing doesn't have a dollar sighed attached doesn't mean they are any less or more successful than the person next to them. (Obviously, there are clear examples of a wasted life. Just playing video games, being an unproductive member of society, substance abuse, and crime.) But, even if all someone does is just working 9 to 5, staying in good health, and just enjoying spending time with friends and family. Generally speaking, not such a bad life. But, agreed, there's always potential for more. But, it's based on their life goals and achievements, not anyone else.