Set Yourself A.P.A.R.T. from the Crowd

When trying to grow your business and establish a brand for yourself, it is key to find a way to differentiate yourself from your competition. To be noticed and recognized your audience must see you as unique in some definable way. Promotions, awards, opportunities, clients, and professional or romantic relationships all hinge on our ability to be noticed by the audience we seek. But what is it that truly sets us apart in a positive light?

Some people look to their clothing or fashion to create a memorable impression. Think of Pee-Wee Herman with his signature high-water pants and suspenders with greased back hair or Cher with her daring extremes in costume. In most cases, however, this is superficial in impression and impact without talent to stand behind it. Other people look to rebellious activities to gain notoriety, such as Howard Stern. While this might work for him, it is not what most of us want to be remembered for, nor will it attract the audience we want?
So how can you set yourself apart from the masses and gain the results you desire?

(A) Actions
Everything you do, every day, has an impact on your life and on the impression those around you have of you. Consider all that you do. How do you respond to your boss or your clients? How do you treat those who help you in your daily activities? How much effort do you put into your work or your sport? Everything counts.

(P) Publications (verbal and written)
Everything you say and everything you write is a part of your personal publications. In all that you say and write you communicate to the world your values and intelligence. Look at the work that you produce? When you draft a report for work does it reflect your values and your work ethic or are you giving mixed signals?

(A) Associations
Whom do you associate with? What is the reputation of the company you work for? What are the reputations of the people you socialize with? What professional groups do you belong to? Are these associations in alignment with your personal and professional aspirations?

(R) Results
Results speak louder than words. I can think of numerous soft-spoken leaders whose career histories speak for them. Achievements say a lot to your audience about your abilities. Awards, promotions, and successes in any area lead to increased recognition. Don’t be afraid to go for it!

(T) Timing
Sometimes it is not what you do, but when you do it. There have been many men to travel into space at this point in history, but we will never forget who was first. Being a forerunner in history is incredibly powerful. Set yourself a goal that sets you apart in this manner. You might become the first woman in your company to become a VP. You might be the first to suggest a new idea. Find a goal that motivates you to be your best.

Of course there are always those who don’t want to stand above the rest. Some people prefer to hide in the crowd and seek anonymity. But the rewards in life are not for those who hide. They are for those who dare to dream and put their efforts toward achieving their dreams. The rewards in life are for those who set themselves A.P.A.R.T.

If you have anything really valuable to contribute to the world
it will come through the expression of your own personality,
that single spark of divinity that sets you off
and makes you different from every other living creature.

-- Bruce Barton