Bob Bly Direct Response Copywriter Official Banner

Is being the best overrated?

July 11th, 2013 by Bob Bly

Confession time: I am an inferior human being … meaning I come
up short in almost every category by which people are measured.

Every day, I look around and see people who are more athletic
than me … better-looking … taller … smarter … thinner … kinder …
more personable … wealthier … healthier … more well-adjusted …
even funnier.

Whatever I do professionally – copywriting, book writing,
speaking, information marketing, consulting – there are others
who are more successful and make much more money at it than I do
(though in one of these vocations not many others and not that
much more money).

How do I live with myself knowing that I am so inferior?

The secret is that you can be lousy at 99.9% of things and still
have a happy and successful life – at long as you are good at
just a few or perhaps even only one thing.

As far as I know, Paul Simon is good at only music. He’s
certainly not the biggest, strongest, or best-looking guy on the
block.

Also, most fans listening to his music would agree that Paul
Simon doesn’t have the best voice and isn’t the greatest singer
in the world.

But Paul Simon has enough people who like his songs and his
singing to give him a lucrative and successful music career.

You do not have to be the best there is at what you do to make a
great living at it. SR is a great example.

SR is a professional stand-up comic who decided to make the
transition to more lucrative performing as a corporate
motivational speaker.

I have heard SR do both comedy and speaking. He is not the
funniest comic I have ever heard. He is not the best
motivational speaker I have ever heard.

But he IS the funniest motivational speaker I have ever heard.
So he makes a great living speaking for meeting planners who
want a motivational speaker who can also make their audience
laugh.

What most people don’t realize is that you don’t have to possess
nearly as many fans as Paul Simon to make a lot of money and
live well from your work.

I think it was Seth Godin who observed that if you have just
10,000 fans, you can make a great living and have a successful
career.

For instance, if you have an e-list with 10,000 subscribers, and
can convince each to spend just $100 a year with you, you will
gross annual sales of a million dollars.

Ten thousand people are hardly a big fan base; Bon Jovi probably
has millions of fans. You do not need a huge fan base to succeed
at whatever it is you do.

If you are a freelance copywriter, and tomorrow 10% of the
Fortune 500 wanted you to write copy for them, you would be
overwhelmed and could not handle a fraction of the workload.

You simply do not need every company out there to consider you
the top copywriter. You only need a few who like what you do
well enough to want you to work on their promotions.

And even those few companies do not have to consider you the
“best” at what you do. They simply have to feel that your
service is a good fit for what they want.

Years ago, when I did some consulting work for Dow Chemical,
they shared with me that they were producing 778 print ads,
brochures, catalogs, press releases, data sheets, and other
marketing documents that year.

If you were a copywriter back then and Dow was your only client,
they could keep you busy and profitable round the clock – and do
the same for ten other copywriters at the same time. And that’s
just one client.

So if it helps you, I want you to know:

1-You can be middling to poor at most things and still have a
successful life and career.

2-You don’t even have to be the best at what you ARE good at to
have a successful life and career. You just have to offer
something that other people want.

3-You don’t have to have throngs of admirers. In many instances
10,000 fans, 100 customers, or 10 clients or less can keep you
busy and profitable all year long.

If all this is of some comfort to you, and stops you from
fretting about what you think are your shortcomings, then I have
achieved my goal.

Share

This entry was posted on Thursday, July 11th, 2013 at 3:05 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

108 responses about “Is being the best overrated?”

  1. Braden Talbot said:

    This is probably part of the overwhelm when trying something new. Then, for some, it devolves into a “hobby” which is usually an excuse to not even try.

    You have achieved your goal.

  2. Sandip Mukherjee said:

    That’s an awesome piece of writing. I wonder why there is not much comment on it. At the same time I respect Brandon’s thoughts. A person should remember your realisations but should not make it an excuse. If they do, they will not grow.

    Thanks for sharing.

  3. Bon said:

    Such a thoughtful and realistic post. Thank you.

  4. University Result said:

    Video showing Aam Aadmi Party leader and former Chief Minister of New Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal asking TV news anchor

  5. Mandy said:

    Are you looking for in this regard, it is enough to read this post, sensationally you approach to the subject.

  6. bejeweled 3 online said:

    Today there are different quality of games in the market to play and entertain yourself but there are only few games which also improve your skills along with entertainment. Bejeweled 3 free online games plays same role in ones life.

  7. John said:

    I like the posts of Bob Bly very much. He has a unique way to attract readers. His articles are so interesting to read.

    https://fxpnow.wordpress.com/2019/05/12/best-telegram-channel-for-forex-signals/
    http://forexsignals.eklablog.com/best-telegram-channel-for-forex-signals-a162486290

  8. george said:

    Your blog improves viewers in various private regions around the world presently. The blog is totally unique in cloud solutions engineer making this very easier for all subscribers across the world to do different topics through this website.

  9. madihakhan said:

    It is a pleasure for me to read this post regarding This is called well written post by an experienced author. I just want to add few line life is to short every one is busy and all people in tension about her goods so here logistics company It usually provides a full range of services including: tracking inland transportation, preparation of shipping and export documents, warehousing etc.

  10. rohaan said:

    Nice sharing amazing one keep sharing more thanks for all lovely one insulated food bags manufacturer

  11. apkspree said:

    Check all in one apk download site called https://www.apkspree.com/ to get unlimited and fun filled free apk’s for your favorite android smartphones…

  12. Abbas said:

    Nice article! I am very glad to get this latest Update. SunEcoChina

  13. Rathod JB said:

    Are you looking for in this regard, it is enough to read this post, sensationally you approach to the subject. Music Lyrics

  14. charlly said:

    We need a lot of non-brilliant hard-working people to keep the world turning. Being a top dog might feel great for your self-confidence, your family might revel in it, but for most people is not needed to live a happy fulfilling life. Hostsailor

  15. ghdsports said:

    Enjoy sports live streaming on android with ghd sports app. You can enjoy each and every single sports match live for free
    https://ghdsportsapk.ooo/

  16. tahmoorkhan said:

    nice arcticle thanks for sharing
    Aage Chal Lyrics 

  17. Jennifer Winget said:

    This is an interesting article. For this short passage, the author gives a nice heading that is Is being the best overrated? The main attraction of this article is the way of writing so anyone can read it. business to business marketing

  18. tere jaisa yaar kahan said:

    That’s an awesome piece of writing. I wonder why there is not much comment on it. At the same time I respect Brandon’s thoughts. A person should remember your realisations but should not make it an excuse. If they do, they will not grow.

    Thanks for sharing.

  19. Ryan B Abraham said:

    When I read this article, I don’t get any information about this topic you have explained here. I need to know some more details regarding this topic. Can you please share the details? I am eagerly waiting for more post like this. cbd supplements

  20. apk for free said:

    Check free APK to earn real money https://www.apksforfree.com/freekcash-apk/

  21. kompaswork.ru said:

    I have ordered three times drawings on this site – https://kompaswork.ru which is enough to say that this is a reliable and affordable company.

  22. wifi study App for pc said:

    This is very good information keep it up if you want to download any android app for pc then click here

    wifi study App for pc

  23. berricef82 said:

    Make no mistake, best fake yeezy website is a very influential sneaker brand. This year, Yeezy was ranked in ninth place in a list of the “hottest brands” on the search platform Lyst.

  24. DownBeach Remodeling said:

    nice post
    Hardwood Flooring Installation Ocean City NJ

  25. DownBeach Remodeling said:

    nice post
    Hardwood Flooring Installation Ocean City NJ

  26. One Dasty said:

    Bringing home a new puppy is a wonderful experience involving the whole family, which is why we begin training early to ease the transition to their new home and family. O great amount of support, we assist in the preparations to make it less stressful. To provide a completely different environment for our puppies, we thoroughly researched and make sure this puppies will only go to respectable families
    https://pugslandbreeder.company.com

  27. McOrlando said:

    All of Pitbull dog and puppy,health certificate, genetic health guarantee, and AKC registration papers. All new families are required to sign a contract that includes a basic health guarantee and a 3 year genetic health guarantee. They have been raised in our home around small children, kittens and dogs of every size to help them develop well round personalities accustomed to daily home activates. We encourage families to ask question and to stay in contact with us.
    All puppies sold as pets will go home spayed-neutered! We also sell puppies along with breeding right. Note this will include an additional fee.
    https://pitbullbreeder.company.com

  28. Neon Signs said:

    But do not forget in this case to take care of protecting the lights out of harm! Neon is for quite a while. Unlike a classic luminaire, neon doesn’t comprise an extreme filament that may burn unexpectedly. It’s possible to purchase a neon sign to your room, https://neoncave.co.uk/rather than be afraid in a couple of weeks you will need to purchase a fresh one. Tubes filled with neon or argon may take any form in the hands of a skilled craftsman. Starting from street signs and lights, ending with entire images, for clubs or pubs — all thesis accessible using neon tubes. Each item is made individually based on the choices of the client. This is an opportunity to purchase a neon sign for a room which will be designed specifically for you and will improve the interior of the home. Affordable and energy-efficient to run. Given its mass abundance, it must come as no surprise that neon signage is so affordable. Since they have no filament, neon electrodes work cool to the touch, so they don’t waste much electricity at all.

  29. Sonsonced said:

    The Travis Scott x Fragment x Air Jordan 1 Low should be releasing in the coming fake travis scott Jordan 1. However, keep your eyes peeled for any fugazi pairs out there!

  30. parul sharma said:

    The wonderful website it’s really a piece of amazing information. Punjabi Bagh Escorts Doing a great job.

  31. Yoga Of The Heart said:

    This is one of the best motivating blogs that I have ever read. Thanks a lot for sharing that!

  32. gclub said:

    I like the tour by boat, it’s King99 food While cruising that It was the most wonderful experience for me to find a description.

  33. fake eyelashes pensacola.. said:

    Stay humble

  34. tulsa eyelash extensions.. said:

    You’re doing your best! DO not worry

  35. Download KMSpicpo said:

    I found the blog to be incredibly valuable because it offers specific information that I couldn’t find anywhere else. Do you want free software that activates any version of Windows or Microsoft Office? Using this Download KMSpico application activate the Microsoft product in a short time.

  36. Ndure Shoes said:

    From Ndure buy online the latest fashion track suits for women online at affordable price. Fast Shipping.

    From Ndure buy comfortable women training shirts at affordable price. Fast Shipping.

    From Ndure buy latest fashion basic women graphic tees at affordable price. Fast Shipping.

  37. doramas prime said:

    very informative article, keep shairng such an amazing peice of content , you may want to checkout https://doramasflixs.net/

  38. hellodolly said:

    sau vedem cum se schimba foarte seriale turcesti usor oamenii din prieteni in rivali, Seriale Turcesti. dragostea transformandu-se in ura, asteptarile au part of tradari si sperantele aduc click sud numai suferinta, chiar si asa in cele trei zile de difuzare a telenovelei intamplarile prezentate inca de la inceput vor fi captivante seriale latimpclicksud online iar would be evenimentelor va fi una uimitoare pe parcurs.

  39. james jefry said:

    Aquí puedes ver todas las novelas turcas en español, completas y en español nuevas y terminadas completas con todos los series y novelas turcas en español capitulos en español

  40. GoMatka said:

    Really a knowledgeable blog. Thanks for this writing.
    Satta Matka App Development
    Matka Game App Development
    Matka app development
    https://gomatka.gowebs.in

  41. Metro Shoes said:

    Metro Shoes provides the new formal heels. Make a fashion statement wearing alluring designs by Metro Shoes Pakistan.

  42. ShopECS said:

    Buy shoes online from ECS to make you footwear comfortable. The ECS is providing quality products which are cost-effective as well.

  43. Fake Yeezy Shoes said:

    The adidas Yeezy 380 Alien Blue arrives in a light grey and white reflective Primeknit upper with a Glow Green side stripe. From there, a faint Alien Blue translucent BOOST sole provides a supportive base.Come to buy Fake Yeezy 380 Low Price On Sale

  44. Rios Cosmetics said:

    The best perfumes for women in Pakistan are offered by Rios Rios wants to satisfy their customers with top notch perfumes for women Their best perfumes for women are perfect for your needs, fulfilling your demands With their perfume for women and related products, Rios is sure to meet all of your requirements

  45. Rivaj UK said:

    Rivaj offers great cosmetics and related products like makeup remover and makeup remover wipes So, grab the best makeup remover from Rivaj today and enjoy Their makeup remover kits are truly unbeatable and offer a high degree of satisfaction Rivaj offers the best makeup remover to their customers every day

  46. Ndure Shoes said:

    One of the leading shoes brands in Pakistan is Ndure, always offering their customers quality footwear.

  47. Elaine M Farnsworth said:

    Ver doramas coreanos en espanol

  48. Marlin P Almaraz said:

    Mira el exitoso Lovve in the Contract drama coreano de 2022 gratis todos los episodios anteriores y próximos en ver doramas

  49. Ankit Sharma said:

    check more about the hottest models https://www.updatedcelebrities.com/myla-del-rey/

  50. himanshu sharma said:

    check more about the cutest girl https://www.updatedcelebrities.com/alona-love/

  51. Ankit Sharma said:

    check the hottest fitness model of america https://www.updatedcelebrities.com/miranda-cohen/

  52. Highway Fashions said:

    Highwayfashions presents the latest afrozeh collection online. Match the broad range of women’s dresses online at Highwayfashions. Get your favorite ladies’ dresses online in Pakistan at low prices.

  53. fgfgg said:

    Appreciate it for this post,

  54. dfgf said:

    I would like to thank y ????

  55. asgd said:

    This is the reason it really is greater you could important examination before creating. ??????

  56. svdvvd said:

    Web webpage: ???

  57. ?? said:

    Iím amazed, I must say. Seldom do I encounter a blog thatís both equally educative and interesting, and without a doubt, you have hit the nail on the head. The issue is something that not enough men and women are speaking intelligently about. I am very happy that I stumbled across this during my hunt for something concerning this. ??

  58. sniper said:

    This is the reason it really is greater you could important examination before creating. It will be possible to create better write-up like this. .Great post and amazing facts right here.Keep it up the wonderful work..These guys are awesome ..This is a fantastic website, thanks for sharing. There’s no doubt i would fully rate it after i read what the idea about this article is. You did a nice jo
    ???

  59. gfg said:

    Normally I do not read post on blogs,. ???

  60. sdsad said:

    This is a really well written article…I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful info..This design is incredible!

  61. dfjmhn said:

    I am truly happy to read this website??????

  62. DFGFDH said:

    I am thankful for the article post.ind a lot of approaches after visiting your post. ???

  63. ???? ?? said:

    I have a hard time work ???? ??

  64. ????? said:

    Awesome and interesting ?????

  65. ghg said:

    Isurveying along and staggered over your blog. Just expected to confer a decent blog and this article truly enabled me ???????

  66. dfsf said:

    pleasant post, stay aware of this fascinating work.

  67. ?? said:

    Great post, please keep on sharing amazing article like this! It makes me happy reading your post..Interesting and interesting information can be found on this topic here profile worth to see it.You are so intriguing! I don’t assume I’ve genuinely perused anything like that previously. So extraordinary to discover someone for certain authentic considerations on this issue. Truly.. much obliged to you for firing this up.

  68. asvvsd said:

    such good information. ????

  69. ???? said:

    Very good blog post.Much thanks out fail, your writing style is top professional; even your website also looks amazing thank you for posting. ????

  70. ????? said:

    This is the reason ?????

  71. ?? said:

    I do consider all of the ??

  72. ???? said:

    I’ve e a lot more useful than ever before. ????

  73. ???? said:

    Hello There. ????

  74. ???? said:

    Some truly nice stuff ????

  75. DoramasTv said:

    Watch and download Spanish dramas, Spanish sub online with Spanish subtitles high Quality Video download. DoramasTv for everyone Doramastv.

  76. Oxeltech said:

    Firmware development services involve the creation and programming of software that is embedded in electronic devices, such as microcontrollers, sensors, and other electronic components. These services are typically offered by specialized firms that have expertise in electronic engineering and software development.

  77. Maples Closet said:

    Buy the best luxury bags online in Dubai at Maples Closet, your go-to destination for women’s fashion. Browse our exquisite collection and choose from a range of meticulously crafted bags that effortlessly blend sophistication and functionality.

  78. Ammara khan said:

    Get the latest formal dresses online in Pakistan. Ammara khan offers its customers the latest formal and luxury formal dresses online all over Pakistan at reasonable prices. So, grab your favorite luxury dresses today.

  79. Shahtaj said:

    Discover the bridal dresses in Pakistan at Shahtaj Qaiser Our outstanding designs, vibrant colors, and beautiful embroidery are sure to make you feel like a queen on your special day. Choose your favorite dress today and prepare to look and feel gorgeous on your wedding day. Shop now!

  80. Deutech said:

    Achieve a glowing and flawless skin with Deutech’s face whitening cream. Our advanced formula specifically designed to address dark spots, uneven skin tone, and helping you achieve a brighter look. We offer unbeatable products and a high degree of satisfaction.

  81. Mohagni said:

    Explore our collection of Stylish Trouser Design and stay ahead of the latest trends. If you’re looking for comfortable trousers, sophisticated suit trousers, or timeless designs, our selection offers the best trousers for every event. Uncover an exhibition of colors that fits your style and make a lasting impression.

  82. Walkeaze said:

    Walkeaze is the best online store for Shoes for Women in Pakistan. We provide a wide range of quality products for women such as Sandals, Slippers, Heels, and more. Grab your favorite women’s shoes today.

  83. The Entertainer said:

    The Entertainer offer it costumer the best baby stroller online. The Entertainer bring an amazing collection of baby stroller , dolls and other stuffed toys for their costumer.

  84. BSNS Consulting said:

    Simplify your tax obligations with BSNS Consulting’s comprehensive Taxation Services. Our experienced tax professionals are well-versed in the intricacies of tax regulations, ensuring compliance while maximising your tax efficiency. Trust us to handle your tax planning, filing, and other tax-related matters, so you can focus on what matters most – growing your business.

  85. CAvpshost said:

    Welcome to CaVPS Host, your gateway to powerful and reliable Windows VPS hosting solutions. Our hosting services are designed to provide you with the flexibility and performance you need for your online projects. With CaVPS Host, you can enjoy the benefits of a dedicated Windows environment, ensuring seamless operation and enhanced security. Our state-of-the-art data centres guarantee low latency and high-speed connectivity. Whether for business or personal use, our Windows VPS plans are tailored to meet your specific requirements. Elevate your hosting experience with CaVPS Host and experience the difference in performance and service.

  86. iHost VPS said:

    IhostVPS is a premier VPS hosting provider in the USA. Our cutting-edge infrastructure ensures lightning-fast performance and unparalleled reliability. With our user-friendly control panel and expert support, we empower businesses and individuals to harness the power of USA VPS hosting for their online ventures.

  87. Tiptop-Einrichtung said:

    An Elektrische Kosmetikliege is an electric cosmetic bed or treatment table used in beauty salons and spas. The electric functionality allows for easy adjustment of the bed’s height and incline, making it suitable for various beauty and cosmetic procedures.

  88. ??????? said:

    You actually make it look so

  89. adad said:

    Goodness! Such an astounding

  90. sadasd said:

    Goodness! Such an astounding and supportive post this is. I outrageously cherish

  91. SADADA said:

    Goodness! Such an astounding

  92. SADADAS said:

    Goodness! Such an astounding and supportive post

  93. sdsds said:

    Goodness!

  94. sdadad said:

    I’m going to read this. I’ll be sure to come back. thanks

  95. Vallee Real Estate said:

    Welcome to this new Westminster townhouse for sale , offering a perfect blend of modern living and historic charm. With its prime location and well-designed interior, this property is sure to capture your heart.Nestled in a sought-after community, this property offers a harmonious blend of comfort, convenience, and contemporary design, making it an ideal place to call home.

  96. pws44816 said:

    The capcut video editor makes it simple to craft incredible videos. Learn how to use CapCut’s powerful tools to edit and enhance your videos. Say goodbye to amateur videos!

  97. pws44816 said:

    capcut video editor has revolutionized video creation and editing on mobile. Learn how to take advantage of CapCut’s powerful features to edit clips, audio, filters and more. This post covers how to use CapCut to make professional videos in minutes.

  98. pws44816 said:

    Ready to edit videos on your phone? This post covers how to use capcut video editor
    , the popular video editor for iOS and Android. Learn to customize edits, add audio, adjust speed, and export high-quality videos you’ll want to share.

  99. pws44816 said:

    Tired of shopping Daraz on your computer? Here’s how to download the daraz download on both Android and iOS devices for quick access to great deals on-the-go.

  100. pws44816 said:

    From movies to music, TV shows and more – Find out how to download top-quality Hindi entertainment content for free ondesirulez. This post covers everything about this popular site.

  101. pws44816 said:

    Get your daily desi drama fix with this guide to streaming desiserials &tv
    online. Learn where to watch hit shows like Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala, Silsila Badalte Rishton Ka, Kasautii Zindagii Kay and others.

  102. pws44816 said:

    ¿Quieres ver doramas en espanol pero no sabes por dónde empezar? Te recomendamos los 10 doramas asiáticos más populares completamente doblados al español y dónde verlos en línea.

  103. pws44816 said:

    If you’re looking for an ad-free way to watch YouTube videos on Android, youtube vance apk is the answer. This blog provides a full tutorial on how to download, install and use Vance to block YouTube ads and get more control over your viewing experience.

  104. pws44816 said:

    Experience the nostalgia of Ludo on mobile with L
    ludo king apk. This popular board game app offers online matches, tournaments, themes and more – download now for free Ludo fun on Android.

  105. pws44816 said:

    The lulubox app
    claims to unlock unlimited resources in mobile games. We tested lulubox to see if you really get free skins, gems, and other bonuses without getting banned. Read our hands-on lulubox review to learn what it can really do.

  106. pws44816 said:

    The blocky world of Minecraft is your oyster with these transformative minecraft mod Customize mobs, overhaul textures, travel to new dimensions, and expand gameplay possibilities.

  107. pws44816 said:

    Get more out of your photos with the
    picsart mod apk
    This guide will teach you how to install the modded version of the popular photo editor, gaining access to unlimited edits and other premium tools.

  108. Albert V Gowen said:

    Estoy profundamente agradecido por la dedicación y esfuerzo que pones en crear contenido tan valioso en tu blog. Contador De Clicks cambia las reglas del juego para realizar un seguimiento del éxito de su sitio web: ¡compruébelo!

Leave a Reply