Business Lessons from the Water Aisle

“Just go look at the water aisle in the grocery store.” 

I remember hearing this quote when I was first starting my business and I still think about it all the time. 

It’s easy when you’re selling a product or service to get trapped into thinking that there’s already someone out there selling the exact same thing so why even try.

But, have you ever paid attention in the water aisle at the grocery store?

(I mean maybe if you’re a big hydration girly then like for sure, go off!)

Notice how many different brands are trying to sell you on water – arguably the most basic product on the market because it’s quite literally just a liquid that tastes like nothing. 

Yet, there are thousands (2,735 to be exact – I looked it up) of different U.S. companies selling their bottled H20 as if it’s the most iconic, ground-breaking product to ever hit the shelves. 

And honestly thank God, because if Dasani had monopolized the H20 market I would simply die of dehydration. You cannot tell me that Dasani is your brand of choice. I will only drink it if it’s the only option and I’m probably still opting for thirst. 

I digress… 

Even though there might be other business owners selling the same product or service as you, the main difference is that they’re not you. 

Just because they have the same idea or business pursuit does not mean that it’s not your calling or that you should give up and let someone else own the market for selling ___________ (fill in the blank with your product/service). 

Remember, we the Salesgirls deserve more than just Dasani. And that is where you come in with the Liquid Death style of branding, the genius Smart Water formula, or the Evian je ne sais quoi 🤌 of selling your product. 

The next time you start wondering, “Why me?”, I encourage you to go look at the water aisle in the grocery store (thinking about it works, too) and reframe your self-doubt into, “Why not me?”

And don’t even get me started on water bottle brands!

(Editor’s side note: Not that anyone asked, but since I’m here I will say that I die on the hill of Smart Water being the best. I will take no further questions about that statement.)