The internet today is a great source for R&D (that doesn't mean Research & Development, it means Rob & Deploy). Now "rob" is a harsh term; essentially you are taking inspired action based on what you see others doing, when it works and when it fits your business.
The key is instead of being scared of competition, you want to look at it as a sign you are in a healthy business. Competition is an indicator that there is high demand for your products and/or services. And it isn't about doing it entirely differently, but instead about being just a little bit better than the rest that will make you truly stand out and capture more market share.
Take a look at Zappos, a company that zoomed from zero to a billion in sales in under a decade. They sell shoes—so do a million other retailers—but Zappos does it better. They might have the same selection as others, even similar pricing; their trump card is their service and hassle-free returns.
Zappos also have turned their employees—all of them—into ambassadors for their brand by giving them the authority to make customers happy instead of sending customers on a wild goose chase through layers of management to get satisfaction with sticky issues.
What can you do in your business just a little better than anyone else? What can you do in your career just a little better than anyone else? What can you do in your relationships just a little better than anyone else? How can you be a little better in your life?
