When it feels like hundreds of people are already doing the same thing you’re currently doing, or want to do – It can be all too easy to wonder: ‘What is the point in trying?’
What makes me any different?
Whatever you’re doing, whether you’re a freelancer, a small business owner or a blogger, it is important to recognise that nobody is you, and that is your power.
And whilst it is important to keep one eye open on what your competitors and peers are doing in your space. It is equally as important that you are mindful of their actions whilst remaining focused on what YOU’RE trying to achieve.
Know your audience
You won’t always be the right fit for somebody whether they’re a client you’re hoping to work with, or a reader you’d like to turn on to your blog content or writing. The crucial part is knowing who you’re targeting whilst being visible to the people who are looking for somebody doing what you do. Find your audience and make some noise wherever they are – Maybe that’s on social media channels such as LinkedIn or Twitter. Perhaps it’s at an industry-specific meetup. Wherever your audience is, you need to be there too.
Why you?
Make an honest list of reasons why people have chosen to work with you in the past. If you’re not sure or haven’t started yet, dig deep and think about the qualities you possess which would, in turn, convince YOU to choose you. Perhaps it’s your personability, your wealth of experience, or your communication and approach to managing projects.
You could also ask for feedback from other people, why do they think you’re great? Why do they read your work? Why have they worked with you in the past?
Related: 5 ways to give better feedback via email
And if you’re just starting out, but don’t feel as though there’s enough room for you too, rest assured, that there absolutely is! People choose people, so don’t let what others are doing keep you from progressing. Remember what we said earlier? Nobody is you and that is your power.
1. Create as much as you consume
By consuming the same people’s content day in, day out, you’ll naturally start copying them, or envying how they appear to be progressing. Limit your consumption and set goals to achieve things that help propel your goals forward. Write two articles a week? Attend a monthly industry event? Get it done!
2. Unfollow for a while
If seeing what other people are doing in your space is making you feel like shit, unfollow them, or ‘hide’ their content for a while…just until you’ve reset the meter on your own goals and confidence. After some time has passed, you can include them back into your online feeds, or don’t – your online space is yours and you should curate it towards the things you want to see, and what makes you feel inspired.
3. Acknowledge that your vibe attracts your tribe
When it’s nose to the grindstone, it can be difficult to remember what you’re working towards. If it’s making you feel unmotivated that everyone appears to be doing the same thing as you, remember and revisit your ultimate goal. Who are your dream clients to work with? How many engaged readers do you want to communicate with on your blog? Show up as yourself, be present and the right people will find you.
