Jonathan Livingston Seagull's perception of himself as 'extraordinary' stems from his unique passion for flying and learning, which set him apart from the rest of the flock.

• Disinterest in Ordinary Seagull Activities: Jonathan was not content with the mundane existence of fighting for food. His drive focused on perfecting flight.
• Passion for Learning: He dedicated himself to understanding the science of flight, experimenting with different techniques and pushing his limits.
• Rejection of Flock's Values: Jonathan's pursuit of flight mastery clashed with the flock's emphasis on conformity and survival.
• Mastery of Flight: He eventually achieved a level of aerial skill far surpassing that of the other seagulls, including speed and aerobatics.

In essence, Jonathan's extraordinary nature comes from his refusal to accept the limitations and values of his society and his dedication to pursuing his passion for flight.