The Superior Variant: Becoming Your Best Self With the Time You Have
Mikal Driver, MAT
Social Innovator | The Literacy Lab Program Manager-Leading Men Fellowship Atlanta | Educator | Founder | Visionary | Author
In the Marvel multiverse, we’re all familiar with the concept of variants—different versions of the same person, shaped by choices, circumstances, and the paths they’ve walked. Some variants shine as heroes, others succumb to darkness, and a few rise to become something extraordinary: the superior variant. While the multiverse might exist in the Marvel universe, it’s also a metaphor for our lives. Every decision we make, every moment we embrace, is an opportunity to become the best version of ourselves.
So, how do we step into the role of our superior variant? How do we unleash the extraordinary hero waiting within us, all while acknowledging that our time is limited? Here’s your guide to embracing your inner superhero and making the most of the time you’ve been given.
1. Accept Your Origin Story
Every Marvel hero has an origin story—sometimes tragic, sometimes messy, but always transformative. Tony Stark began as an arrogant billionaire; Steve Rogers was a frail kid from Brooklyn; and Wanda Maximoff had her heart shattered time and again. Yet, each of them used their beginnings as fuel for their transformation.
Your story might not include radioactive spiders or vibranium shields, but it’s just as important. Accept your past—your triumphs, your mistakes, and your challenges. They are the foundation of who you are today. Instead of running from your story, use it as a launchpad. Every setback is a stepping stone, every scar a badge of resilience.
2. Identify Your Superpower
Every hero has a unique ability that sets them apart. Spider-Man’s agility. Doctor Strange’s mastery of time. Black Panther’s unwavering sense of duty. What’s yours? It might not involve webs or capes, but you have something just as special. Maybe it’s your creativity, your ability to connect with others, or your resilience in the face of challenges.
Take the time to discover and nurture your superpower. What makes you stand out? What brings you alive? When you embrace your unique gifts, you’ll find that the world opens up in ways you never imagined.
3. Face Your Villains
Every hero has their adversaries—Loki, Thanos, Ultron—the list goes on. But often, our greatest villains aren’t external forces; they’re internal ones. Self-doubt, fear, procrastination, and negative self-talk can be just as menacing as any supervillain.
The key is to confront these “villains” head-on. Recognize them when they appear and refuse to let them take control of your story. Just like a hero, you’ll need courage and determination to overcome them. Remember, the greatest battles are fought within, and each victory over these internal foes brings you one step closer to becoming your superior self.
4. Assemble Your Team
Even the mightiest heroes need a team. The Avengers didn’t save the world alone, and neither should you. Surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and support you. Build a network of friends, mentors, and loved ones who believe in your potential and encourage you to grow.
Be intentional about your “team.” Avoid toxic influences and relationships that drain your energy. Instead, align yourself with those who lift you up and remind you of your greatness. After all, every hero is stronger with their allies by their side.
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5. Harness the Power of Time
One of the most poignant lessons in the Marvel universe is the fleeting nature of time. Think of Tony Stark’s final words: “Part of the journey is the end.” Life is precious, and every moment matters.
Ask yourself: How are you using the time you’ve been given? Are you living with intention, or are you allowing time to slip away? Becoming your superior variant requires mindfulness about how you spend your days. Whether it’s pursuing a passion, deepening relationships, or simply enjoying the present, make every second count. After all, heroes don’t waste time—they seize it.
6. Embrace Evolution
In the Marvel multiverse, characters constantly evolve. Wanda became the Scarlet Witch, Peter Parker learned the weight of responsibility, and Loki found redemption in his journey. Similarly, becoming your superior variant is a process. It’s not about perfection but progress. You’ll stumble, fail, and face obstacles, but those moments are where growth happens.
Give yourself permission to evolve. Learn from your experiences, adapt to challenges, and keep striving. The superior variant of yourself isn’t a destination; it’s a journey of continual transformation.
7. Leave a Legacy
Every hero aims to leave the world better than they found it. Whether it’s Tony Stark’s sacrifice, T’Challa’s leadership, or Steve Rogers passing the shield to Sam Wilson, their stories remind us of the importance of legacy.
What will your legacy be? How will you use your time and talents to make an impact? Remember, it’s not about grandeur—it’s about authenticity. Your legacy could be the kindness you show, the lives you touch, or the passion you inspire in others. Whatever it is, make it meaningful.
Your Superior Variant Awaits
The beauty of life is that you’re both the hero and the author of your story. You hold the pen, and every day is a chance to write a new chapter. Becoming your superior variant isn’t about superpowers or multiverses—it’s about embracing your potential, rising above challenges, and living with purpose.
The Marvel universe is vast, filled with heroes who inspire us to be better, stronger, braver. But remember, your universe is just as powerful. You don’t need a cape or an infinity gauntlet to change the world; you only need to believe in yourself.
So, step into your power, embrace your story, and become the hero of your own life. The superior variant of you is waiting. What are you waiting for?
“No man can win every battle, but no man should fall without a struggle.” — Peter Parker
Go. Be your Superior Variant!
Assistant Director, Product Strategist at Moody’s Analytics
1 周Love this!
Social Innovator | The Literacy Lab Program Manager-Leading Men Fellowship Atlanta | Educator | Founder | Visionary | Author
3 周Thank you all for the support! It truly means a lot and I hope it sparks something in all of you! Please past on the entire series as it comes out to your networks ????????
Leading Men Fellow, at The Literacy Lab - Creating Meaningful Experiences through Innovation
3 周This article resonated with me, not just as a young man of color but as someone reflecting on growth and purpose. The idea of a superior variant mirrors an age-old truth that we are shaped by our choices and how we rise after falling. The passage on time stood out most. We often wait for the right moment, but true strength lies in acting with intention today. Growth is not a single transformation but a lifelong evolution, and that is a lesson worth embracing.
Network Director of Curriculum and Instruction: HUM
3 周Powerful!
Picking the right brokerage team makes all the difference.
1 个月That’s for sharing! Mikal Driver, MAT