Introduction
Many business guides often emphasize following the rules and sticking to tried-and-true methods for success. But there’s a different approach that can lead you to greatness. Instead of blending in, this guide encourages you to embrace your unique traits – the very qualities that make you stand out. If you’re ambitious, a little obsessive, and maybe even a bit weird, these so-called imperfections are actually your secret weapons.
Based on the experiences of two bold entrepreneurs, Sunny Bonnell and Ashleigh Hansberger, this guide shows how you can achieve success without losing your individuality. With real-life examples and fun stories, this is the perfect companion for anyone who wants to rise to the top by being their true selves.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why 10,000 hours of practice isn’t enough
- How red shoes make you stand out
- Why you should never punt
Key Idea 1: Break the Rules to Find Success
Imagine you’re playing in a high school football game, and it’s the fourth down. Normally, teams would punt the ball away, playing it safe. But the Pulaski Academy Bruins decided to break this rule. They never punt, catching their opponents off guard and winning game after game, even earning seven state championships by 2018.
The lesson here is: sometimes, breaking the rules strategically can lead to amazing success.
Our society often teaches us to conform, but being different can actually be an asset. The TV show “Girls” broke away from typical glamorous portrayals of young women and focused on their real, sometimes messy lives, becoming a hit because of its unique approach.
However, breaking the rules isn’t about chaos. It’s about thinking strategically. Know what rules you want to break and why. For instance, Matt Scanlan disrupted the wool industry by paying Mongolian herders directly, making his company, Naadam, a success while helping herders earn more.
Key Idea 2: Be Bold and Audacious
Sunny Bonnell and Ashleigh Hansberger hit rock bottom in 2007 after failing a pitch. Instead of giving up, they got back on stage and delivered a powerful pitch, winning the competition. Their boldness paid off.
The takeaway: Realizing big dreams requires a daring spirit.
Being bold means thinking big and not being afraid to push limits. Patrick Brown, the founder of Impossible Foods, was told his vegetarian burger idea was impossible, but he persevered and succeeded.
To adopt this mindset, always ask yourself, “What would I do if nothing was holding me back?” This helps you focus on opportunities rather than obstacles. And remember, even bold plans need a safety net – some cash reserves or supportive mentors to help you bounce back if things don’t go as planned.
Key Idea 3: Embrace Obsession
Achieving excellence isn’t about doing something a few times; it’s about being obsessed. Top musicians practice thousands of hours to perfect their craft.
The point is: To succeed, be obsessed with your goal.
Obsession means you’re so focused on your goal that you’ll keep pushing beyond limits. Find a goal you truly love, like Jiro Ono, the sushi master who dedicates his life to perfecting his art.
Stay balanced by keeping healthy habits and a support network. An organized life makes reaching your goal easier.
Key Idea 4: Do What You Love
Anthony Bourdain followed his passion for food and travel, inspiring millions. His dedication showed that following your passion leads to success.
The message: To do well, do what you love.
Don’t settle for a job you tolerate. Find what you love and pursue it with all your heart. Like Sarah Marquis, who walked from Siberia to Australia because she loved adventure. Or Danny Bonnell, who discovered his love for performing by saying yes to unexpected opportunities.
Key Idea 5: Be Weird
Steve Pateman saved his family’s shoe company by making bold, flashy boots instead of boring loafers. His willingness to be different made his business thrive.
The lesson: Be weird and celebrate what makes you stand out.
In a world where conformity is the norm, being weird can be a real asset. Think of successful celebrities, from Tim Burton and David Bowie to Andy Warhol and Salvador Dalí. It’s often the eccentric individuals who truly make a mark on society.
Why is strangeness such a draw? For one, embracing your quirks shows that you not only have something unique to offer, but that you’re also confident enough to stand by your curious self. A 2013 study from the Journal of Consumer Research called it the “Red Sneakers Effect.” They found that people who flout strict dress codes with their own personal style are often viewed as more competent and valuable.
It turns out, being weird is good business. In the overflowing consumer market, it’s important to stand out by offering products and services that can’t be found anywhere else. This was the strategy used by Prohibition Bakery. The small shop dominated New York City’s competitive confectionary scene by serving up bizarre cupcake flavors with a boozy twist. Why settle for vanilla when you could try Scotch and Cigar?
So, how do you tap into your own source of weirdness? The best approach is to think strategically. Consider what you do well, but also, what you do differently. Do you have a twisted sense of humor or memorable niche interest? If you’re upfront about your oddities, you may find others on the same wavelength.
You could also try applying your remarkable skills and knowledge in unexpected places. You may just come up with a completely new product. Now, you just need to convince people to give it a try. We’ll talk about that in the next blink.
Key Idea 6: Charm Your Audience
David Copperfield amazed audiences by making the Statue of Liberty disappear. His charisma made people believe in the impossible.
The takeaway: Charm an audience by capturing their imagination.
While our culture loves the myth of the lone genius, the truth is, no one achieves anything without the support of others. Whether you’re a salesperson hawking a new product, a start-up founder pitching to investors, or a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat, you’re not going to succeed unless the audience is on your side.
Being persuasive isn’t actually magic, but there are a few tricks you can use to turn on the charm. When psychologists from Claremont McKenna College studied charismatic individuals, they found that they had three essential traits. One, they were expressive in their emotions. Two, they were sensitive to the moods and desires of others. And three, they could adapt their tone to resonate with their audience.
This means the art of persuasion is collaborative. When Barack Obama lit up a room with his public speaking, it wasn’t because he lectured the crowds, it was because he made each listener feel part of something bigger. Similarly, when Steve Jobs introduced a new product, he spoke in grand terms of changing the world. He made the audience feel important just for wanting to buy his wares.
Of course, like any skill, charismatic speaking takes practice. Cultivate your own persuasive abilities by taking every chance you can to charm others. Go to job interviews, deliver talks at events, or hit up a local open mic night.
If you’re feeling nervous, that’s normal. Just remember, your goal is to connect with your audience. Don’t just give a speech, tell a story. Lead with a good hook to capture everyone’s attention, then follow through with a confident, honest tone that lets your personality and emotion shine through.
Key Idea 7: Emotions Are Strengths
Mr. Rogers saved public TV funding by speaking from the heart. His sincere, emotional approach convinced even the toughest senators.
The lesson: Emotions, empathy, and sincerity are strengths.
We’re often told to think with our heads, not with our hearts, especially when it comes to the professional world. But, people aren’t cold and calculating robots. Everyone has feelings and emotions. Knowing how to understand and express these more sensitive sentiments is actually a very valuable skill.
In fact, when psychologist Elaine Aron studied “highly sensitive people,” or individuals who feel their emotions particularly strongly, she made an interesting discovery. Highly sensitive people make for highly effective leaders. Not only are these individuals more intuitive and creative, but they are also better at understanding the needs of others. They can easily inspire those around them and smooth over disruptive conflicts.
Some of the most successful leaders are noted for their empathetic side. Howard Schultz, the CEO of Starbucks, is famous for treating business partners like family. He often writes emails to stakeholders with genuine messages, always closing with the phrase, “Onward with love.” It’s that personal touch, as much as the coffee, that keeps people coming back.
Don’t be afraid to include some of your personal life habits at the office. Be sincere and direct. You’ll be surprised by how liberating it can be to treat everyone, from clients to colleagues, as real people with real feelings.
Many traits we’re taught to hide are actually strengths. Embrace your quirks, be bold, and connect with others sincerely to stand out and succeed.
