Unlocking Your Niche: How to Stand Out in Any Industry Using Simple Math

Let’s be honest - the formula for finding a niche in any industry has been around for years. It’s not a new concept, but it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. The truth is, it comes down to basic math. And while I’m not the first to follow this logic, I certainly won’t be the last. The value of this article lies not in reinventing the wheel, but in hoping that you - yes, you - resonate with the way I break it down. And maybe, just maybe, this time you’ll take action.

Now, let’s dive into this simple formula with a real-world example.

The Power of Overlapping Strengths: MMA Fighter Meets Public Speaking

Imagine you're among the top 20% of professional MMA fighters. You’re good, but even at this level, you’re likely still struggling to make a six-figure income. Why? Because I’m not talking about the top 20% of UFC fighters. Remember, the UFC represents the top 1% of all professional MMA fighters globally, and their contracts reflect that level of exclusivity.

But let’s say that in addition to being a top 20% MMA fighter, you also happen to be a skilled public speaker - another ability that places you in the top 20% of the general population. Using simple math, you’re now part of a more exclusive group: 20% of MMA fighters who can also present themselves well. That’s 20% * 20% = 4%. Already, you're significantly narrowing the competition.

Now, let’s add one more layer. Suppose you’re also good-looking - say, in the top 20% of the population in terms of appearance. You’re now in an even more exclusive club: 20% * 20% * 20% = 0.8% of the population, or rarer than 1%. At this point, you’re not just any fighter - you’re one of the very few MMA fighters equipped to transition into the role of a sports commentator or even a TV anchor on a major sports channel.

Do you know what the top 1% of any profession earns? In Australia, that’s typically between AU$300,000 to AU$400,000 annually. In the United States, it’s even higher, ranging between US$500,000 to US$600,000. And you were worried about income? I bet 99% of you reading this are.

The Secret? You Don’t Need to Be the Best in One Thing

Here’s the takeaway: You don’t need to be the top 1% in a single area. You just need to be pretty good at three things. When you find the overlap of those strengths, that’s your niche. The more niche you become, the more valuable - and irreplaceable - you are in your industry.

I’ll admit, I might be oversimplifying things a little, but the logic is sound. This approach helps you identify a niche where you can stand out, not by being the absolute best in one skill, but by combining a few complementary strengths. Now, if you’re still following me, but looking for more relatable examples, let’s explore a few from other popular industries.

Example 1: Tech and Design

Let’s say you’re a web developer in the top 20% of your field. You know how to code efficiently, and you can build fast, responsive websites. Now, if you also have an eye for graphic design (another top 20% skill), you’re already more versatile than most developers who can only handle the backend. Add in strong communication skills, and you can now present your ideas to clients in a clear, compelling way. That’s 20% * 20% * 20% = 0.8%, placing you in an elite group of developers who can design, code, and communicate. This rare combination of skills could easily push your earnings into six figures.

Example 2: Fitness and Social Media

Imagine you’re a fitness trainer in the top 20% of your industry. You have certifications, experience, and a solid client base. But let’s say you also understand nutrition (top 20%) and know how to build a strong presence on social media (top 20%). Now you’ve unlocked a niche as a fitness expert who can offer personalized workout plans, nutrition advice, and social media content that resonates with a large audience. Again, you’re in the top 0.8% - a fitness influencer with real expertise, not just an online personality.

Example 3: Coffee Roaster and Content Creator

Let’s say you’re a coffee roaster in the top 20% of your field. You understand the science of roasting, know how to source high-quality beans, and can consistently create unique, flavourful roasts. Now, if you also have skills in content creation (another top 20% ability), you can easily stand out by creating engaging content around your roasting process, sharing behind-the-scenes videos, or offering brewing tutorials.

But let’s add a third layer - let’s say you’re also skilled in social media marketing (top 20%). You can now build an online following, educate your audience on coffee trends, and drive traffic to your website or storefront. This combination of skills - roasting expertise, content creation, and marketing - places you in a niche that’s incredibly rare in the coffee industry. The result? You’re not just another coffee roaster; you’re an influential brand that engages a broader audience and creates demand for your products.

In this niche, you’re positioning yourself among the top 0.8% of professionals who can both create exceptional coffee and build a powerful brand presence online. This opens the door to higher earnings, industry recognition, and long-term success.

Conclusion: The Execution Risk and Building Longevity

Finding your niche is only the first step on the path to success. As exciting as it is to discover the overlap of your unique skills, execution risk is the next big challenge that determines whether you’ll actually stand out. No matter how well-suited you are for a particular niche, it’s the consistent effort and long-term execution that will lead you to true success.

In the coffee industry, for example, you might discover that you have a unique blend of roasting expertise, content creation skills, and marketing acumen. But these insights alone won’t drive your success. The real test comes when you put in the hours to hone your craft, build your audience, and refine your product offerings - day after day, month after month.

Increase Your Luck Surface

Here’s another important aspect to consider: increasing your luck surface. This means positioning yourself in such a way that you’re always ready for opportunities when they arise. The more you practice, network, share your work, and create value, the more likely you are to “get lucky” when the right opportunity comes knocking. The opportunities for growth in your niche are out there, but you have to continuously execute to ensure that when luck meets preparation, you’re ready to take full advantage.

Execution Longevity Equals Success

What separates the people who succeed in their niche from those who don’t is longevity. Anyone can find a niche and work at it for a while, but those who thrive are the ones who stick with it over the long haul. Success isn’t about quick wins; it’s about continuous improvement and consistent execution. Whether it’s mastering your roasting process, perfecting your content creation, or building a community around your coffee brand, the key is staying focused and adapting over time.

In future articles, we’ll dive deeper into topics like luck surface and how to ensure execution longevity in your journey to success.

So, if you’re ready to find your niche, remember - discovering it is just the beginning. Execution is what will turn that discovery into a thriving, sustainable career. Stay committed, keep improving, and your niche will do the rest.