We live in the Information Age. For the first time in recorded history, vast numbers of people have access to more information than they can absorb or apply. There was a time in history when knowing a little about many subjects was something to be admired. Today, it seems, those people who get ahead know a lot about a very narrow field of thought or endeavor.
People succeed based on performing well within a very narrow niche; however, all niches are not created equal. If you attend a Major League baseball game, you might simultaneously be enjoying the professional pursuits of the world’s best hotdog vendor and the world’s best pitcher. Both of these individuals may be recognized as the best within their professions, but the pitcher will receive applause, fame, recognition, and hundreds of times more compensation than the hotdog vendor.
We must pick our own niche and not be judged by someone else’s standard.
Albert Einstein said, “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing it is stupid.”
Our educational process and corporate workplace dynamics would tend to force us all to think and perform the same way. In reality, we succeed when we define our own pursuits and excel at them; however, we must remember we will only be rewarded based upon how much value we create for others.
Instant and readily-accessible communications make it possible for people to seek the recognized expert in any narrow field of endeavor. There was a time when the family doctor treated every illness or ailment. Today, he or she is more of a gatekeeper who can assess a problem and direct patients to the right specialist.
If you’re going to find your own niche, it must be one in which you have interest, aptitude, and passion. As the season approaches each year for high school and college graduation, experts emerge and articles proliferate advising young people on the best profession or job category to seek. The best career for anyone to pursue is the one that holds their interest and their passion. Better to be a great hotdog vendor with ambitions to own the company than to be a mediocre baseball pitcher who washes out in the Minor Leagues.
As you go through your day today, find your niche where you can both excel and serve others.
Today’s the day!
Jim Stovall is the president of Narrative Television Network as well as a published author of many books including The Ultimate Gift. He is also a columnist and motivational speaker. He may be reached at 5840 South Memorial Drive, Suite 312, Tulsa, OK 74145-9082; by e-mail at Jim@JimStovall.com; or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jimstovallauthor.
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