Second Place
Doing something new or different may involve watching and learning from someone else. What a great feeling learning can be, and when you’re really excited you want to be just as good (or better) than what you’ve learned. Children (and some adults) often fantasize about becoming a superhero, or in earlier generations, perhaps G.I. Joe or Barbie, or maybe the next pop-star singer, American Idol, or Little League sports hero.
As an adult you observe top athletes, marketers, or upcoming CEO’s and perhaps you picture yourself becoming great, in some ways, just like them. They may become your target, your goal, or you strive to be just as good or better. You picture your business, a new advertising campaign, or your job role evolving to be just as good or better. You overcome your fears, take some risks, knock down obstacles, and strive for excellence.
All of that is great, but it is not good enough. Not unless you take the ultimate risk and that is to do something different, breakthrough traditions, and create or become the next big thing. In your business, your market, or your community, you have stand out, rise above others and become the next target for anyone trying to succeed.
Your advertising campaign needs to be different, risky, and captivating. In your job you may need to be different from the last manager, stronger, kinder, or more inspirational. In business your product or service needs to feel different, look different, or be awe inspiring.
Some of the most successful people in the world broke traditions, took chances, and were different, that is until others tried to be just like them. If your goal is to be just like the others, you’ll always be just part of the crowd. Part of the crowd can be rewarding and satisfying, but is that really you?
Until you’ve become the target the best you can hope for is second place.
– DEG
Dennis E. Gilbert is a keynote speaker, corporate trainer, and consultant that specializes in helping businesses accelerate their leadership, their team, and their success. Reach him through his website at http://DennisEGilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
Photo Credit: Pixabay, Public Domain
