The Uncommon Way

Do you ever come across words that seem to define you, although you have never put those specific words together yourself before? Well, I recently came across this quote and I had to share it with you:

“Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.” Booker T. Washington

I have always done tasks, assignments, projects, hobbies, etc. in uncommon ways. And, when set my mind to something, it is typically done with excellence and exceeds most expectations. Now. I am totally aware that thinking and performing in “uncommon” ways can be a gracious gift —- OR an overwhelming disadvantage.

As a child, I delighted in “being different” and (most of the time) I was allowed the room to live there. Although the outcomes of creating and living in the “uncommon” were often questioned with anticipation, the process of fulfilling tasks was filled with adventures, untraditional paths, and independent choices. When freedom and appropriateness were at play, I was comfortable there.

Imagination.

Creativity.

Music.

Organization.

Writing.

I find as an adult, there is more room for the “uncommon” to live. However! Especially in the “common” workplace, the majority the of the time being an “uncommon” thinker is accepted (or rejected) through other people’s preconditions. In traditional work environments, unless the room is intentionally created for an “uncommon” to flourish and thinking space is made a priority, the process of functioning as an “uncommon” is evaluated and measured by others expectations of their images of the result. If you ask me, what defines the purpose of an “uncommon” creative is that the result can rarely be anticipated or replicated!!

Many times, I find that managing life and work with an “uncommon” mindset leads to the perception that you may have defiant tendencies, be ignorant or incapable. Possible. But, everyone has perceptions. My time spent sharing this thought is to encourage… that, if you are an “uncommon thinker” are also, most likely, an “uncommon dreamer” too.

Several years ago, I started a Gluten-Free Blog and I often revisit the images of some of my baked products. I love these two images above. My artsy observations?

) The Cupcake: Stands alone. Character and whimsy set it apart. It is full of potential and unanticipated flavor.
) The Cookies: Structure completes its stance. Color compliments stature. However, its flavor is anticipated by its aesthetics.

Most of the time, I feel like the cupcake and it isn’t a bad place to be — look at it!! 🙂 But, when need be, I fit into an appropriate structure and organize myself to be effective, efficient, compliant and united— hopefully keeping my whimsy that makes me me. I can enjoy being joined and topped with a bow.

Today, whether you are an artist, a small business owner, a stay-at-home or an occasional reader, I encourage you to unwrap a little “uncommon” and make the best of it! And, be sure to share the positive outcomings, we’d love to hear from you!

Invest in your dreams!!

Darla