We only love the outsider once they’ve won.
It’s a classic hero story: someone who knew nothing about a topic, came in thinking from first principles, and revolutionized an industry riddled with preconceived notions. We love these characters because they inspire us. They remind us of what agency can earn us and whisper the childhood dream many of our parents sold us on: You can do anything.
But what people don't talk about is the challenge of being an outsider. Navigating those who have been soured by others telling them “no” and who, in turn, squash you down. Before you break through, an outsider is just a dreamer. And many adults dislike dreamers because they quietly remind them that they, too, have lost belief in themselves.
While I think what I’ve said is true, I also believe it’s not entirely useful. What I do find useful are the tactics needed to break down those who don’t believe in your outsider ways and turn them into your biggest cheerleaders.
For me, the only tool in my toolbox is the ability to learn. In an era where knowledge is infinite and the constraining resources are time and initiative, learning as much as you can about an industry (be it healthcare, aerospace, or cloud computing) is the only thing you can arm yourself with against the army of naysayers.
In the past four months, I’ve explained to doctors the nuances of the contracts they operate in. Not because I wrote the contracts or navigated them myself, but because I took the time to open them and read their words. It’s an effort I realize many folks before me haven’t bothered to do. And as you emerge as a knowledgeable, smart, and teachable person, there’s no way to deny your value.
Insiders often assume that an outsider’s current state of unknowing will forever persist. But humans are bad at predicting the future, and we often underestimate how fast someone with the want and desire can gain expertise.
Blake Scholl knew nothing about making airplanes when founding Boom Supersonic. Jay-Z had no experience with athletes' contracts when founding Roc Nation Sports. We were all once outsiders, and to deny someone’s ability to learn today is to discredit your past self’s ability to become the person you are now.
The outsider’s journey isn’t easy, but it’s possible. And it starts with one thing: the willingness to learn.