Most entrepreneurs fall into the category of being deliberately different. They defy the conventional approach to business and life. Passion for making a difference is a big differentiator among this group of people. Unfortunately, obstacles arrive quickly, and it is in how we handle them that makes or breaks the business.
We hear that for entrepreneurs it’s good to connect with like-minded people. Creative ideas are endless, and we strive to put the best into action. A few years ago, I was interviewed by Philip Philbin on his financial podcast show. The host enjoyed my insights for business. He since created the “deliberately different” Financial Credit Conference and Expo for August 2017 and asked I be a speaker. My topic will address building global influence with relationship selling strategies behind it. I’m also looking forward to meeting the other speakers who also adhere to being different and gaining their insights.
However, experience shows that there are three major problems with being deliberately different.
1. Ahead of the Curve
Sometimes it feels as if we need to stop to wait for the rest of the crowd to catch up. Ridicule, sneers and poor predictions about our endeavors make us cringe. Nevertheless, passion and motivation help one to persevere. It isn’t until all of the pieces of the puzzle come together that those in their comfort zone begin to see there is merit to what we have to say.
2. Growth
Company growth requires new hires. Most people who seek out jobs are less creative than the entrepreneurial mindset. We need to be mindful of working to accommodate both threads of thinking to have a well-balanced workplace with good team spirit. Team meetings where everyone’s opinion counts will do wonders for keeping business on track.
3. Scary Competition
I’ve come to recognize that when we hear the nastiest of remarks, it’s because we are onto something good that frightens our competitor. Some may disagree, but I’ve come to realize that competition doesn’t exist because we each embrace a different approach. The worst is when people are bullied to not work with another organization. Bullies exist everywhere because they are stuck in the old model of believing others compete with them. Our job is to stand up and do what’s best for each of us and not allow others to push us around.
Use Common Sense Plus
It’s best to use all senses for making final decisions. Common sense is always first. But then there is the intuitive feel, the visionary mindset and listening to a variety of opinions. Keep an open mind for more possibility to open up and avail itself to you.
It’s common to compare oneself to others, although it’s best to leave judgment out of the analysis. For example, have you ever wondered what all the common traits were of the people hired in a similar position for a job you accepted? Of those who did best, how did they differ from those that struggled? One additional question is, did management attempt to bring the better performing together with those who produced less stellar results to enhance a team atmosphere?
Consider:
We make improvement by learning from the best in action as well as devotion to continued self-education. Make a pledge to continually improve upon your weaker areas, and keep an eye out for the latest developments not only in your industry but the tech world. Technology is taking over many of our everyday tasks. Learning how to apply it to your work will help you to remain ahead of the curve. Combining all of the above, you will stand out by being deliberately different.
Related: Be Uniquely Different in the Way You Give