6 questions to uncover the "edge" only you can offer
Read time: 5 minutes
For years, I thought I knew the recipe for “success”.
I’d always assumed that if I worked hard, left school with top grades, ticked all the right boxes, and stuck to the plan, then things would automatically fall into place.
I would always be “OK”, living a comfortable life in a career I enjoyed.
It’s why I chose to study medicine—a respected profession with a clear, step-by-step path.
But real life didn’t match up to the promise. At least not for me.
Instead of fulfilled, I felt flat.
Instead of moving forward, I felt stuck.
Instead of feeling freedom, I felt very restricted.
I was chasing someone else’s idea of achievement; maybe society’s, maybe my parents—but certainly not my own.
It wasn’t until I became exhausted, burnt out and disillusioned that I was forced to pause, step back, and question things.
And that’s when it clicked: No one can outdo me at being me.
My unique experiences.
My specific skills.
My story.
I realised that that was my leverage. The thing nobody else can claim.
We all have an “edge”—a natural advantage that makes us stand out. The challenge is figuring out what it is, and leaning in. Here’s a framework that helped me find mine.
1. Notice what comes easily
Some things just flow. They take little effort, yet produce great results. I’ve noticed that often people, myself included, overlook these because they feel too “simple”.
For me, it’s breaking down complex ideas so they make sense to others. I used to brush it off as “just explaining things,” but it’s a strength.
A question for you: What do you do almost on autopilot that others struggle with? Ask a friend, “What do you notice that seems effortless for me but hard for you?”
2. Uncover your weird skill mix
Most of us carry unexpected combinations of skills that, together, create something that’s quite rare. I have a friend, for example, who does both product design and copywriting, and another who is a doctor, ex-founder, and data scientist. My own blend is strategy plus storytelling.
A question for you: What’s your unique mix? List five of your skills. Which two don’t normally go together? That’s probably your secret advantage.
3. Notice where others struggle
Sometimes your edge shows up in the things other people find difficult. I often help friends with delivering talks or pitches—it’s something I’m good at and enjoy, but others find it nerve-wracking and hard.
A question for you: What do people typically ask for your help with? That’s a big hint.
4. Follow your joy
in life I think it’s always worth considering what you’d happily do even if no one paid you. That’s usually the work that energises you, where you get into “flow” easily. I’ve personally found that this often leads to your most impactful work.
A question for you: When was the last time you forgot to check the clock because you were so absorbed in what you were doing?
5. Embrace your whole story
The challenges and setbacks matter as much as the wins. They give you depth and make you more relatable. My shift away from medicine was messy, but it became a surprisingly strong point of connection for so many people making the same transition.
A question for you: What life moments (especially the difficult ones) have shaped how you see the world?
6. Turn struggle into strength
The hardships you’ve overcome can light the way for someone else. My experience with burnout has helped me guide others to avoid it. It’s hard to see at the time, but your toughest seasons can later become the very thing someone else needs to hear about.
A question for you: What pain have you endured that you can transform into support or insight for others?
In summary...
Your edge isn’t something you need to chase after; it’s already woven into your skills, story and perspective. You don’t need to be more like anyone else. You just need to be more you.
First, discover it. Then use it—and see what unfolds.
Hope this sparks something for you,
Speak soon,
Dupé
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