The Unfair Advantage: Finding Those Who Outpace You

The Growth Insight 🌱

The Unfair Advantage: Finding Those Who Outpace You

Ever noticed how some people just seem to make things happen while you're still thinking about it?

They're building companies, learning new skills, or creating art that gets noticed—all while you're planning to start "someday."

I was scrolling through LinkedIn last week when I saw someone I went to school with announcing their second successful startup exit. My stomach dropped. We started in the same place, but somehow they raced ahead while I carefully plotted my path.

The truth hit me: ambition isn't equally distributed. Some people want more, push harder, and take risks that most of us talk ourselves out of.

But here's what changed everything for me: Instead of feeling defeated when I meet these high-achievers, I now see them as a mirror showing me what's possible. The most dangerous thing you can do is surround yourself with people who are comfortable with average.

Their contentment becomes your ceiling. Look closely at your circle. Are they pushing boundaries or maintaining the status quo? Do your conversations center around problems or possibilities? Is anyone making you uncomfortable with their pace? That discomfort is growth calling.

When you find people who make you think, "Wow, they're doing so much more than me," don't turn away. Lean in. Study them. What do they do differently? How do they think about time, risk, and failure?

I started having coffee with the most ambitious person I knew—someone whose drive intimidated me. After our third meeting, I realized something: they weren't superhuman. They just refused to accept the limitations I had placed on myself.

The gap between you and them isn't talent or luck. It's permission. They've given themselves permission to want more and to act accordingly.

Stop watching from the sidelines. Stop letting their ambition be a spectator sport. Their level of drive is available to you too—not to copy their path, but to match their energy.

Find these people. Learn from them. Then outwork them.

Because nothing changes until you decide that their ceiling should be your floor.