If you’re like me, you love sandwiches.
Or sammiches as I fondly refer to them.
But in my book not all sandwiches deserve the same adoration.
For example, I don’t care much for the quality of ingredients at Subway. And I really do NOT like the way they put a sandwich together. For the life of me, I’ll never understand why they save the condiments for last. In my book, the bread deserves the dressing for even distribution of your favorite flavor in every bite. Right?
And yet Subway is wildly successful just the same.
Despite the way I feel. Why? Because enough people out there DO like their lousy sandwiches. 😉 They don’t need the same amount of attention given to a sandwich the way I do.
So Subway continues to create for THOSE people while I have to find someplace else to satisfy my sandwich building code of ethics.
What does this have to do with artists? Allow me explain.
First a sandwich I do like to illustrate my point
Lenny’s in New York City. These guys assemble a sandwich the way I would put one together. I enjoy everything from the quality of their ingredients to the way they prepare the toppings. Thinly sliced onions, shredded lettuce and yes, the mayonnaise is spread lovingly on your choice of bread not just squirted haphazardly all over your toppings.
From an article in the NY Times, “In training the people, we tell them to make the sandwich like it’s for your girlfriend, to try and impress her, with care and love,” said Sei Hoon Chu, the founder of Lenny’s.
That’s a sandwich I want to eat
Lenny’s is the exact opposite of Subway. In fact they charge me more because of it. And I’m happy to pay it! Theirs is the sandwich experience I want.
Both sandwich shops cater to a different type of person. And they forget about the others. As they should. And even though Subway may not do things the way I’d like them, I still end up eating there from time to time.
The lesson is not everyone will like what you do
And that’s cool. You shouldn’t concern yourself with everyone. Focus on giving those that DO like you the best possible experience. They’ll help you find others who like the way you do things. The right types of people for you. Then you can continue to do what YOU do, like no one else can.
If you’re having trouble getting things assembled
Seek out mentors who can help you build a better sandwich. 🙂
What type of people are you speaking to? How do you give them an experience they’ll love? Tell me in the comments.
P.S. If you find yourself at Lenny’s, here’s my favorite: Roast Beef and cheddar on a toasted hero with lettuce, onion, hot peppers, mayo and barbecue sauce. Yum!
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