I have read heart-wrenching stories of children standing on the sidelines, admiring the so-called “popular” people. They yearn to be like them and to live their “glamorous” lives. From the outside looking in, the popular kids seem to have it all and they will do anything to be a part of the “in” crowd.
I call these tales heart-wrenching because while the inside gazing goes on, their talents are just wasting away.
Some business entrepreneurs are no different than high school groupies by trying too hard to belong to a group that does not fit their personality or their needs. Some business owners chase after every popular guru with a pretty smile, lots of promises and shiny products, hoping their success rubs off on them.
The fact is – it was not cool in high school. And it certainly is not cool in business.
Peer pressure should not be the deciding factor in your business. Why?
Because it is YOUR business. It should showcase not only your talents but your personality and represent your beliefs.
Before joining an online networking group, take a few moments to do your homework. What is the level of interaction in the group? When you scroll through the updates, is it one long advertisement? Or are members reaching out to assist other members? Just because all of your friends are joining a particular group does not mean it will be a good fit for you.
Sit down and evaluate your business goals. What are you trying to achieve, what are your objectives? Choose your business tools accordingly based on your evaluation. Do you have the time to interact via social media or do you need a scheduling mechanism? It is okay to get recommendations from other business owners but you should always perform your own due diligence.
I live in an urban area, in large part because I am not a fan of the cookie cutter homes that dot the suburbs. When my clients talk to me, they are getting ME. When they visit my website, be assured that it is a representation of me and my business practices. I have a go-to team of successful business owners that I bounce my ideas off of. But in the end, the decision is all mine.
Be a standout on your own merits and stop trying to be a member of the in-crowd. You have talents beyond measure and the world deserves to see them.
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