There’s a lot of talk about creating a competitive advantage in your business. I think a bit differently about this, so — at the risk of exposing too much about myself — allow me to explain.
Most of the uber-successful business owners I know are also uber-competitive, compulsively so. And have probably always been so. Competing against self, time, and others. Creating their own inner competitions… competitions with self hidden even from those closest to them.
This was never more obvious than my completely compulsive desire to shave minutes off of my drive between Virginia Tech and home. Others spoke of five hour drive times. (Or more!) Not me. I’d make no stops. I’d speed the whole way. I’d experiment with different routes. Always looking for ways to BEAT my BEST time, resenting the car that might have slowed me down even slightly, and vagrantly dismissive of the posted speed limits.
Once, when I was only about 13 minutes away from home, I was pulled by a state trooper for speeding. Ignoring the fact that this additional ticket (added to the plethora of others I’d unceremoniously collected) could have cost me my driving privilege entirely, I rushed to get my drivers license and insurance card out. I rolled my window down and had the cards ready for him before he even approached the car.
I couldn’t BELIEVE how slow he was walking. I was personally offended by it. Resentful that this little snafu could cost me my best time yet. But there was STILL time, I reasoned. (Ever the optimist.)
Officer: “Do you know why I pulled you?”
Me: “Yes, sir. I was speeding.” Thinking, let’s get this over with. There’s no time for flirting or begging or stamping my little feet. Just write the ticket already.
Officer: “I’m gonna have to write you a citation.”Me: “I know. But I’m running late. So, if we could hurry….” Thinking, GREAT. I blew it. I bet now he’ll REALLY drag his feet and ruin my time.
My.
Gosh.
The drive and singular focus that comes with being naturally competitive IS a competitive advantage in and of itself.
So, look at YOU. When’s the last time you let your COMPETITIVE flag fly? Has it been a while? That’s okay. REVIVE that desire to win. How can you fan the flames of YOUR competitive spirit?
