One Size Fits All

   Hi There!  This week I was listening to a podcast in which Jim Collins was talking about the idea that books, movies, brands, etc which claim they are "for everyone" are destined to fail.  I thought that was an interesting concept, because after all, it would seem that if you can connect with everyone, you will cast a wider net and have more fans, readers, customers, etc.  But the truth is, nothing is truly "for everyone." And the sooner we realize and capitalize on our niche markets, the better we can grow. 

  You may be thinking, "Ok great. But I don't own a company, book, movie, or brand."  Well that's ok, because this blog is actually about you.  Have you ever tried to be "for everyone?"  Have you tried to make everyone your friend, fit in, play your part, and not rock the boat?  Many people are so afraid of upsetting someone or of not being friends with everyone that they are willing to compromise their beliefs, values, or unique preferences just to fit in.  But just like brands are never really "one size fits all," so people who "stand for nothing will fall for everything."  

  Now, I am not advocating that you be rude, unloving, or argumentative.  We have enough of that going on in the world.  But what I am suggesting is that you get to know your unique brand and then work on developing that.  Maybe you are passionate about helping the homeless, but you think it would just kill your best friend if you told her you wanted to volunteer at the shelter on Saturdays instead of your weekly shopping trip.  Or perhaps you work in the nursery at church because sweet Aunt Mary said you would be good there, but what you really want to do is help with the floral displays up front each week.  It's time to stop worrying so much about what other people think and start stepping into what you are best at.  And who knows, there maybe someone else who is wonderful with babies and was just waiting for a spot to open up.  

  Sometimes we get so caught up in just playing the part we've been assigned, that we forget to ask ourselves what part we were designed to play.  We each have talents and gifts that are unique to us, but when we try to operate to please everyone, we often miss what we are best at and where we could be most beneficial.  

  This week, do some soul searching.  Find out what your brand is, and lean into it.  Don't be afraid to break a few molds or capsize a few boats.  The sooner you start living into your niche, the greater impact you can make for good on the world and the people around you.  You may not be "for everyone."  But you can make a lasting impact when you discover who or what you are supposed to focus your time, energy and talents on.  Step into your zone this week.  I can't wait to see you succeed!

~K. L. W.