Brown Suits And Watered-Down Whiskey: Why We Shouldn't Settle For Average

Growth

It seems like today, everyone feels they have a vote in the decision-making process, which often ends in a muddy compromise. For example: If one person likes orange, but the other prefers green, what happens when they average that out? They mix it up, divide it in half and end up with brown. Truth is, average suits nobody. This episode, we discuss how we can exceed average so we're not all stuck in ill-fitting brown suits.

It's no surprise that most people don't want to be average. Yet, average is so easy to fall back into; it's simple, effortless, affordable, comfortable. It's the first idea that comes to mind in a brainstorm, which we're often tempted to accept as the answer and move on. But average suits nobody.

Settling for average is like watering down whiskey. You've compromised on both sides, but what you're left with is a concoction that is neither thirst-quenching nor boozy. It's just, meh.

The same is true for quick, average solutions in the creative industry. Anyone can get a quick stock photo, video or logo online these days. But we've seen time and time again that these bland solutions all start to look and feel the same, ultimately doing their customers a disservice. You are not a one-size-fits-all person and your work shouldn't be, either.

What can elevate something from average to expert? How does settling for average impact our professional lives? (And our personal lives, for that matter?)

Pair this episode with:

Pineapple Mango Punch

Rum

We've got to admit, we never would've thought to mix chives with mango juice. But as it turns out, great things come from unexpected combinations. With Cruzan coconut rum and a mix of orange, pineapple and mango juices, Pineapple Mango Punch offers a symphony of fruit flavor that makes you feel like you're relaxing at the beach (even when you aren't). It's a spicy surprise that's anything but average.

Ingredients

3 oz. Cruzan Coconut Rum
3 oz. pineapple coconut juice
1 oz. mango juice
1 oz. orange juice
Edible flowers and citrus rings, to garnish. (We're in Michigan and tropical flowers don't grow here naturally, so we opted for a chive flower garnish.)