“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

Have you ever wondered why some people stand out while others blend into the background, even when both possess similar skills, opportunities, or intelligence?

The answer often lies in Jimmy Johnson’s powerful quote:

“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.”

It reminds us that greatness is not always about huge, dramatic actions; rather, it’s about consistent effort, persistence, and the willingness to go beyond what is expected.

Many people do what is required, but extraordinary individuals do a little more.

Think of a student preparing for an exam. An ordinary student may simply memorize notes, but an extraordinary one will also practice past papers, clarify doubts, and revise consistently. The small additional effort can mean the difference between barely passing and achieving excellence.

In the world of online business, the same principle applies. Platforms like Wealthy Affiliate provide the tools, training, and community support necessary to start and grow a successful online business, but simply signing up isn’t enough to stand out.

Ordinary participants may go through the lessons passively, while extraordinary members take extra steps: they implement strategies immediately, engage in the community to learn from others, and consistently create high-quality content.

This “little extra” effort is what separates those who build a thriving online business from those who only dabble.

In sports, this principle is even more evident. Consider athletes like Michael Jordan or Serena Williams. They weren’t simply talented.

Talent alone is ordinary because so many people have it.

What made them extraordinary was the extra hours of practice, the refusal to give up, and the dedication to constant improvement. They pushed a bit further, trained a little longer, and believed a little deeper.

In everyday life, this “little extra” might look like offering help without being asked, being kind when it’s difficult, or adding creativity to your work when others stick to routine. A waiter who remembers a customer's name, a coworker who takes initiative, or a business owner who prioritizes customer experience can turn average interactions into memorable ones.

These small actions create trust, loyalty, and admiration.

Ultimately, extraordinary is not an unattainable label reserved for the lucky or gifted.

It is a choice.

By doing just a bit more than what is comfortable, convenient, or necessary, anyone can transform ordinary results into remarkable ones. Whether it’s in school, sports, or building an online business through platforms like Wealthy Affiliate, the key is consistency.

Small, extra steps every single day.

So, the next time you face a task, ask yourself:

What is one small thing I can do to make this better than expected?

That tiny effort may be all it takes to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary achievements.