Irreplaceable, essential, priceless. Or…irresistible, alluring, dynamic. You get to choose who you want to be. But for heaven’s sake, decide yourself and go for it. For Seth Godin, it’s "The goal, no matter what you sell, is to be seen as irreplaceable, essential and priceless" And I’m like, "Okay, buddy, that sounds great, but how do I actually do that?" and he responds, "Of course, the realization of what it takes to create value might break your heart, because it means you have to specialize, take risks, create art, leave a positive impact and adopt generosity in all you do. It means you have to develop extraordinary expertise and that you are almost always hanging way out of the boat, about to fall out."
Oh. Is that all?
At first, I’m overwhelmed, convinced he’s asking me to do the impossible. So I went for a walk.
An hour later, I’m sweaty and a bit less confused.
Here is what we all can do to be perceived as Irreplaceable, Essential and Priceless (or choose your own adjectives):
1. Commit to BE Irreplaceable, Essential and Priceless. (I’m talking about your business, your career, your family self, your party self, your nerdy self.)
What does your idealized self look like? Choose 3 words to refer to throughout your day. How do you want to feel in this world? Decide.
Being and being perceived are two different species, but in my world, BEING comes before Being Perceived As.
In other words, you want to WANT TO offer incredible value, to make a unique contribution. And you commit to that.
Before you know it, people and things start to push back at you; other people may want you to stay in your box.
2. Realize that you’re not going to be, nor do you want to be, Irreplaceable, Essential and Priceless to everyone. Just to the people who matter the most, your peeps.
3. Put one foot in front of the other. (Even if you’re not sure you’re walking in the right direction.)
Rinse and Repeat. Don’t be surprised when the world seems to conspire to hold you back. Your resolve is being tested. TIme for perseverance.
In other words, Rome is still not being built in a day. If you’re creating something, there are times of overwhelm and times when you don’t know what to do. Regardless, it’s still one foot in front of the other.
Take what seems to be the obvious step, or do the thing that seems appropriate, even if you’re not sure.
The good news is….you don’t have to know HOW to be perceived as Irreplaceable, Essential and Priceless. The answer will emerge on its own as you:
– look for excellence
– specialize
– schedule
– take risks
– create art
– leave a positive impact (in every interaction)
– adopt generosity
– build relationships
– take impeccable care of yourself
What’s your tip for being Irreplaceable, Essential and Priceless? The thing is….you already are!
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