A Marathon, Not a Sprint: Long-Term Development Trumps Quick Success
oday, speed is king and you cannot waste your time in perfecting your product.
Jump right in and keep on improving as you go along. History is never kind to people who over plan and do not pull the trigger in time. Success takes hardwork.
Imagine a group of kids playing tennis. Among them is a six-year-old who unexpectedly dominates the game, leaving the others in awe. This impressive performance earns the kid praise and encouragement, leading them to practice more, perhaps even hiring a coach. As time goes on, this little tennis prodigy surpasses their peers in skill and becomes the star player. Signs of early success.
Similarly, picture a group of aspiring musicians striving for success. One day, their song starts gaining popularity on Spotify, creating a buzz around their name. Suddenly, doors open for them as they attract the attention of producers and even record labels. Their early breakthrough propels them further into the music industry.
Now, let’s shift our focus to politics.
In the midst of an election campaign, a particular candidate emerges as a front-runner due to positive polling numbers early on. This popularity translates into financial support, influential consultants joining their team, and the ability to run impactful advertisements. The candidate’s early success solidifies their position and discourages others from dropping out.
These scenarios highlight the existence of competition in our society that favour those who achieve early success.
It may not be the most fair or optimal system for sorting talent, but it’s a reality we face. Recognizing this, we are presented with two contrasting approaches:
Option 1 -One approach to success involves going all-in and investing heavily to ensure a strong start. If early advantages are rewarded, why not secure one for yourself? This might mean delaying entry into a competitive field, giving yourself an extra year of preparation, or starting small in a local position before aiming for higher offices.
Option 2– The alternative approach to success is to defy the odds and disregard the significance of early advantages. Even though they can be random and often favour the wrong individuals, you choose not to be swayed by them. Instead, you focus on developing your skills and building a loyal following, steadily and consistently, regardless of your initial outcomes. It’s about persevering day by day, making incremental progress.
Many people attempt to pursue both paths simultaneously, but this often leads to burnout.
In my personal opinion, I will choose option 2.
In todays world, speed is king and you cannot delay your launch as you want to perfect your product of services.
One of my friends waited for three years to launch his product, which failed as the market had moved since more than one competitor had entered the category.To me even if you are ready to the tune of 60 % ,you are good to go.Remember, first products from Nike of Coca cola were very basic and were nowhere their current product looks and features.
So take the plunge and keep on improving as you go along.
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Hemant Mishrra
About the author: Hemant is the Founder & CEO of branding and marketing firm ”Neeti Brand Accelerator” in Mumbai. He is a brand strategist and has worked with more than 150 brands during last two decades. He is also mentor and coach to SMEs and startups. You can visit the website www.www.neeti.biz. You can contact him at hemant@neeti.biz
