Why "Playing It Safe" is the Death of Your Brand

Recently, someone advised me to avoid using colour in my marketing for my upcoming new product brand The Mental Armour - Self-Awareness Wrapped In Fashion (see screenshot below of said visual marketing), because it's "overrated", and also, that the visual scenes are very risky. The suggestion was to stick to black and white. My initial reaction was both "yes" and "no"—yes, because it could be an interesting angle, and no, because I loathe being told what to do. The idea of playing it safe doesn’t sit well with me. After all, standing out often means challenging conventions rather than just blending into the trends.

Marketing advice is everywhere, and much of it can be helpful. But as a creative visionary, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of doing what others say is the “right way.” The problem? You end up losing sight of your unique voice.

The Unconventional Path to Standing Out

Here's the thing about being a visionary: you're wired to push boundaries and explore new territories. Conforming to the latest marketing trend might make sense for some, but for us—those who thrive on creativity and innovation—it can feel suffocating.

The advice to "avoid colour" got me thinking. Who decided black and white was the magic formula? Sure, it works for some brands, but does it mean it's the only way to be seen as sophisticated, powerful, or noteworthy? And more importantly, does it align with my brand identity?

Breaking Free From "Shoulds" in Branding

The moment we let someone else’s idea of what’s “overrated” dictate our branding choices, we risk diluting what makes us stand out. Colour, for instance, can evoke emotions, set a tone, and create memorable experiences. Using it—or choosing not to—isn’t about following a rule; it’s about making a deliberate choice that aligns with your values, purpose, and the audience you want to connect with.

So, how do we make these choices? By processing the advice, feeling it out, and deciding if it truly resonates with our vision. Not every piece of marketing wisdom needs to be adopted wholesale. Often, it's about customizing and tweaking ideas to fit your unique brand.

Why Playing It Safe Isn't an Option

Playing it safe by sticking to conventional advice can slowly erode the essence of what makes your brand special. The market is full of brands that look and sound the same, precisely because they've followed the same set of rules. And where’s the thrill in that?

For creative visionaries, standing out often means embracing the discomfort of defying norms. It means taking risks, exploring new ideas, and sometimes, it means rejecting advice—even when it comes from a trusted source.

The Takeaway

In building a brand that truly stands out, remember this: It's not about fitting into a trend; it's about creating one that fits you. If colour is part of your brand identity, embrace it. If black and white aligns more with your message, go for it. But let that decision come from you—not because someone said it's "the right way."

So, the next time you're told to play it safe, ask yourself: Does this align with my brand? Is this who I am? If the answer is no, then it’s time to carve your own path. Because standing out isn't about playing by someone else's rules—it's about owning your own.

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This article captures the essence of rejecting cookie-cutter advice and staying true to one's brand identity. Does this align with your thoughts, or would you like to modify any part of it?

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