{"id":742,"date":"2021-04-13T09:36:49","date_gmt":"2021-04-13T13:36:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/?p=742"},"modified":"2022-08-07T08:30:28","modified_gmt":"2022-08-07T12:30:28","slug":"what-is-an-underachiever","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/what-is-an-underachiever\/","title":{"rendered":"What is an Underachiever, and 5 Easy Ways on How to Overcome Being One"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever been told that you\u2019re a smart and talented person &#8212; full of potential \u2013 yet performing below expectations?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you find yourself knowing that you could do more and be more\u2026 but you\u2019re not sure where to start?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consider this: what if you\u2019re just an underachiever who needs that little push to start accomplishing things.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what is an underachiever, and how can you overcome it?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What is an Underachiever?\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.cambridge.org\/us\/dictionary\/english\/underachiever\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cambridge Dictionary<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an underachiever is:<\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cA person whose performance is lower than you would expect, based on that person\u2019s ability.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similarly, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merriam-webster.com\/dictionary\/underachiever\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Merriam-Webster Dictionar<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">y defines the word underachiever as: <\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cone who fails to attain a predicted level of achievement or does not do as well as expected.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both definitions apply in many situations in life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, a student who is believed to have a high IQ, but does not do well in school, is called an underachiever. The same goes for a talented person who is not reaching their full potential at work or a skilled athlete who performs poorly in sports events.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">All of them may be called \u201cunderachievers.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you know what an underachiever is, let us explore the different types of underachievers. Read on to learn more:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><em><strong>Recommended Reading:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/personal-development-questions\/\">43 Personal Development Questions to Ask Yourself for Growth<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/superhero-pose\/\">The Superhero Pose: Channel A Better Version of Yourself<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/dont-think-too-much\/\">5 Reasons to Stop Extreme Overthinking and Anxiety<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2><b>Types of Underachievers<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-751\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/types-of-underachievers.png\" alt=\"types of underachievers\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/types-of-underachievers.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/types-of-underachievers-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/types-of-underachievers-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/types-of-underachievers-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The concept of underachievement has been studied for several decades now, particularly in the field of psychology. In fact, experts have come up with different types of underachievers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the book \u201cThe Psychology of Underachievement: Differential Diagnosis and Differential Treatment\u201d (1988), psychologists<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/books.google.com.ph\/books\/about\/The_Psychology_of_Underachievement.html?id=_QHFHUzHJ-MC&amp;redir_esc=y\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Harvey Mandel and Sander Marcus <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">discussed six main types of underachievers, with a particular focus on students\/learners:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. The \u201cCoasting\u201d Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the term suggests, this type of underachiever is simply \u201ccoasting\u201d through life. They are not so concerned about schoolwork or grades and tend to give up easily. The coasting underachiever also exhibits general satisfaction with life and is not too worried about the future.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. The Anxious Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The anxious underachiever typically has low confidence, paired with a high level of self-doubt. They get stressed easily and are constantly worried about making mistakes, despite their potential. This type of underachiever also needs regular support and encouragement.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. The Defiant Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This kind of underachiever tends to be the hot-tempered type. Underachievers in this category often get in trouble with authority figures. More common among pre-adolescent boys, defiant underachievers often annoy others and usually blame other people for their mistakes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. The Sad\/Depressed Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The sad\/depressed underachiever has low self-esteem and is generally miserable most of the time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As students, they lack the energy to focus on their studies. This type of underachiever is often tired, lacking in energy, and appears lethargic. They also find it hard to make decisions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. The \u201cWheeler-Dealer\u201d Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the term implies, this type of underachiever is egoistic, impulsive, and manipulative. These are the kind of people who often seek instant reward or gratification and tend to lie, cheat, or even steal to get what they want.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wheeler-dealer underachievers usually exhibit an attractive personality.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. The \u201cIdentity Search\u201d Underachiever<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You probably guessed it: \u201cidentity search\u201d underachievers are those people who are constantly searching for their self-identity, so much so that they cannot focus on work and their studies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Identity Search Underachiever is also notorious for having intense egotism.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Signs of Underachievement<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-749\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Signs-of-Underachievement.png\" alt=\"Signs of Underachievement\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Signs-of-Underachievement.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Signs-of-Underachievement-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Signs-of-Underachievement-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Signs-of-Underachievement-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you think you are an underachiever?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aside from the different types mentioned above, there are signs indicating that you may not be accomplishing as much as you could or not living up to your full potential.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are several signs of being an underachiever:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. You are just getting by.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similar to the \u201ccoasting\u201d underachiever discussed earlier, you are simply getting by.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sure, you do just enough to pass your subjects in school or maintain a satisfactory performance at work &#8212; but that\u2019s it. You are not motivated to do more and be more \u2013 even if you have the potential.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cBare minimum\u201d appears to be your mantra; you are simply doing enough to \u201csurvive.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. You procrastinate a lot.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You know you have to finish that paper, study for an important test, or focus on a significant project. But you keep putting it off and would rather spend your time doing other things instead.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cI\u2019ll do it tomorrow\u201d is something you may often say. However, tomorrow never really comes, does it?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By the time you need to submit your work or take that exam &#8212; you scramble to finish the things you\u2019re supposed to do. In other words, you end up \u201ccramming.\u201d The result may be okay or satisfactory, but then again, it\u2019s not your best work. You know it could be so much better if you had given it more time.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. You lack planning and time management skills.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Speaking of time, you could be an underachiever if you\u2019re not very good at managing it. You\u2019re not adept in planning or making schedules, either.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But think about how much you could achieve by improving these skills. For example, making a simple \u201cto-do list\u201d can help as you prepare for school or work each day. You also get the satisfaction of ticking off each task as you finish!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. You\u2019re always making excuses.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re an underachiever if you make excuses for your faults.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you fail a subject or don\u2019t perform well in a task, you always have an excuse. You find it hard to accept responsibility for your own failures and tend to blame the circumstances or other people instead.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. You often \u201csweet talk\u201d to get out of work.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similar to the \u201cwheeler-dealer\u201d underachiever mentioned earlier, you use your \u201ccharm\u201d to try to get out of work. You often try to pass off work to others, even if it should be your responsibility.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Top Reasons Why Underachievers &#8216;Underachieve&#8217;<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-750\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Top-Reasons-Why-Underachievers-Underachieve.png\" alt=\"Top Reasons Why Underachievers Underachieve\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Top-Reasons-Why-Underachievers-Underachieve.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Top-Reasons-Why-Underachievers-Underachieve-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Top-Reasons-Why-Underachievers-Underachieve-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Top-Reasons-Why-Underachievers-Underachieve-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019ve discussed the traits and signs &#8212; so now, let\u2019s talk about the reasons.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why are you not reaching your full potential? What are the factors that could have led you to become an underachiever?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some possible reasons:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. You\u2019re afraid of failure, and success, too.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.inc.com\/james-sudakow\/why-fear-of-success-is-holding-you-back-more-than-.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fear of failure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> hinders you from going out of your comfort zone. You want to reach a goal, but you\u2019re afraid that the next step could lead to your downfall.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the same way, success frightens you, too. Success often means added responsibility and accountability, and you\u2019re not sure whether that\u2019s something you can handle. In the end, you end up simply staying where you are &#8212;\u00a0 yearning to be something bigger but afraid to move forward.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. You\u2019re depressed.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever been depressed or been diagnosed with depression?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.everydayhealth.com\/depression-photos\/get-things-done-despite-depression.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression usually zaps a person\u2019s energy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, rendering them unproductive. If you are taking antidepressant medications, this could further affect your mood since some medications may have certain side effects. In any case, be sure to consult with a <a href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/39d7\">medical professional<\/a> if you\u2019d like to address this directly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. You have commitment problems.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Success doesn\u2019t happen overnight. Usually, it takes time and lots of engagement and dedication. It also involves forming good relationships with others &#8212; be it at home, in school, or the workplace.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, if you are not keen on establishing ties, this could hinder you from achieving success. So, try to see if you have commitment or attachment problems and address them head-on.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. You don\u2019t get along with most people.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do other people see you? Have you ever been described as critical, negative, or demanding?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As mentioned earlier, connecting with people is part of growth. Even if you are extremely good at what you do, it will be <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.inc.com\/john-rampton\/25-reasons-you-are-not-as-successful-as-you-should-be.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hard for you to succeed if you don\u2019t get along with others<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. You lack focus.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you easily distracted while studying or working? Do you find it hard to finish even simple tasks?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If it takes you a long time to accomplish something that could be done quicker, then you need to improve your focus and concentration skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><em><strong>Recommended Reading:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/group-polarization\/\">What is Group Polarization? Definition and Examples<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/what-causes-deja-reve\/\">What Causes Deja Reve? A Gift for Prophecy or a Glitch in Your Brain?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/bubbly-personality\/\">6 Bubbly Personality Traits That Help Convey Cheer<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2><b>Parenting: An External Factor<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-748\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/parenting-as-an-external-factor-to-underachievement.png\" alt=\"parenting as an external factor to underachievement\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/parenting-as-an-external-factor-to-underachievement.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/parenting-as-an-external-factor-to-underachievement-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/parenting-as-an-external-factor-to-underachievement-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/parenting-as-an-external-factor-to-underachievement-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may not be aware of it, but your parents \u2013 and how they treated you &#8212; may have been a factor in you becoming an underachiever. In particular, they may have influenced you by:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Setting extremely high expectations.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maybe your parents expected too much. They wanted you to succeed in school, in sports, in relationships, and in many other areas.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maybe, they experienced the same thing from their parents (your grandparents), and expect you to do the same. In any case, if your parents were too strict, authoritarian, and hard to please &#8212; these may have led you to \u201cgive up\u201d or simply stop trying.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Having extremely low expectations.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, maybe your parents had low expectations, which is not exactly healthy, either. When a child notices that people expect very little from him, he may respond accordingly and try not to make too much effort.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Lacking interest.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Perhaps your parents were too busy and preoccupied with their own concerns and problems that they rarely show interest in your achievements. Again, this may have been a factor in you becoming an underachiever.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Being overprotective.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your parents may have been protective \u2013 but too protective. They may have \u201csheltered\u201d you too much from failure, disappointment, or any other negative life experience.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a result, by the time you venture out on your own, you find it hard to face problems and challenges and lack problem-solving skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Advice for Parents of Underachievers<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-746\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/advice-to-parents-of-underachievers.png\" alt=\"advice to parents of underachievers\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/advice-to-parents-of-underachievers.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/advice-to-parents-of-underachievers-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/advice-to-parents-of-underachievers-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/advice-to-parents-of-underachievers-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are a parent yourself, be aware of how your actions and expectations are affecting your children.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are some tips on how you can support and encourage your kids:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Teach them how to feel good about themselves.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Self-esteem is an integral part of one\u2019s personality, especially in children. By being a good example, you can teach your kids how to feel good about themselves. In turn, this will help them in many areas of life, such as studies, careers, and relationships.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Don\u2019t equate self-worth with achievement.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never make the mistake of associating your children\u2019s self-worth with their achievements. If you only support them when they get good grades or do something outstanding, they might think that they always need to achieve something before they can get your attention.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Love them for who they are.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not all children are the same, and that\u2019s what makes them so special! They will have different personalities, learning abilities, talents, and inclinations. Always be there to support and love them, no matter what!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>How to Overcome Underachievement<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-747\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/How-to-Overcome-Underachievement.png\" alt=\"How to Overcome Underachievement\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/How-to-Overcome-Underachievement.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/How-to-Overcome-Underachievement-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/How-to-Overcome-Underachievement-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/How-to-Overcome-Underachievement-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, you\u2019ve observed the signs, determined the reasons, and confirmed that \u2013 indeed &#8211;you\u2019re an underachiever. What\u2019s next? How can you overcome it? Is it possible to stop being an underachiever?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The answer is yes. You can overcome it by following these tips:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Set realistic goals.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You have goals, but perhaps they are not feasible or realistic. As a result, no matter how hard you try and how much you\u2019ve achieved, you feel dissatisfied.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Think about it! You may need to readjust your goals and expectations. This way, as you move gradually towards them, you will feel a greater sense of fulfillment and satisfaction every step of the way.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Break big goals into smaller ones.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not attempt to achieve something big all at once. Remember that growth and success take time. Rather than trying to reach a big goal, consider breaking it into smaller ones instead.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take things one step at a time! As soon as you finish one small goal, take time to congratulate yourself before moving on to the next one.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Improve your planning skills.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Earlier, we discussed that lack of planning is a sign of being an underachiever. Fortunately, anybody can hone this skill.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can do this by reading books or attending workshops on planning, organizing, and time management. You can also seek advice from friends and colleagues who are good planners and organizers. This way, you can focus on improving these skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Be more positive.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This may be easier said than done, but then again \u2013 strive to develop a more positive way of thinking. Get in touch with family and friends who can help you have a brighter outlook in life. And if you are depressed, and don\u2019t know what to do, do not hesitate to seek <a href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/39d7\">professional help<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. Don\u2019t stop dreaming.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Big things, small things &#8212; everything starts with a dream!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dreams give us the desire and motivation to pursue greater things. Do not let problems, setbacks, other people \u2013 and yourself \u2013 stop you from dreaming!<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><em><strong>Recommended Reading:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/cognitive-maps\/\">8 Things You Should Know About Cognitive Maps and Navigating the Map of the Mind<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/brain-tips-for-great-success\/\">Great Success: 5 Tips to Train Your Brain for Greatness<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a class=\"ProsemirrorEditor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/art-creativity-quotes\/\">19 Beautiful Quotes on Art and Creativity for Aspiring Artists and Creative Minds<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[divider width=&#8221;full&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2><b>What is an underachiever, really? Are you indeed one?\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-753\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-really.png\" alt=\"what is an underachiever really\" width=\"1020\" height=\"680\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-really.png 1020w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-really-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-really-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-really-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unfortunately, other than the tell-tale signs I shared earlier, there\u2019s no straightforward answer for this. All I can say, that if you feel like you\u2019re an underachiever, you have the power to make a change for the better.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only time can tell. Only YOU can tell.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Do you know somebody who has the potential to be great but keeps underachieving?\u00a0<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-755\" src=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh-683x1024.png\" alt=\"what is an underachiever creativity mesh\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh-600x900.png 600w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/what-is-an-underachiever-creativity-mesh.png 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\" data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"><u>Disclaimer:<\/u><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\"><em>This website contains affiliate links. Meaning, if you click on one of the product links, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thank you for supporting Creativity Mesh.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is an underachiever? An underachiever is someone who does not accomplish what they set out to do &#8211; despite their intelligence, talent, and ability. But here&#8217;s the good news: anybody could overcome underachievement. Here&#8217;s how. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":752,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[31,37,17,18,12,35],"post_folder":[],"class_list":["post-742","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-self-development","tag-explanation","tag-learning","tag-motivation","tag-productivity","tag-psychology","tag-theories","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-33"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/742","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=742"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/742\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1920,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/742\/revisions\/1920"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/752"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=742"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=742"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=742"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/creativitymesh.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_folder?post=742"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}