When Competition Gets Weird

If you're in the small business world, especially in a creative field like mine, you're probably familiar with the weirdness that can happen when someone views your business as competition.

Not healthy, respectful competition, but the kind that involves unfollows, blocks, whispers, and sudden silence. You know the vibe.

Here’s the thing: I didn’t start Inked Badger to play petty games. I started it to help people: indie cafés, local wellness brands, makers, and small business owners who light up when they talk about what they do. I want them to feel seen, supported, and proud of the way they show up online.

That’s it. That’s the whole mission.

There’s Room for All of Us

I genuinely believe that there's space for all of us to do our thing, especially when we’re all putting our own style, values, and personality into our work. We’re never going to attract the exact same clients, because what makes us different is the point. Your vibe attracts your tribe.

When I see someone post a gorgeous logo or launch a cheeky reel or land a dream client, I want to smile for them. Even if we offer the same services. Even if we’re both in the same postcode. It costs nothing to cheer someone on, and it actually makes the whole creative scene feel more exciting, not less.

When That Support Doesn’t Go Both Ways

Sometimes, though, you’ll meet people who don’t feel the same way. People who’d rather treat you like a threat than a peer. People who choose silence over support. Or shade over collaboration.

It used to bother me. I’d overthink it, wonder what I’d done, try to shrink myself so I wasn’t "too visible" or "too similar" or whatever made them uncomfortable.

Now? I take that energy and pour it back into the work. Into client projects that feel like magic. Into new ideas. Into being someone I’d want to work with.

You Can Build a Brand Without Bitterness

You get to choose what kind of business you run. Mine?

✨ Welcoming

✨ Kind

✨ A little cheeky

✨ Always cheering you on (even if we’ve never met)

If you’re dealing with weird vibes or unspoken tension in your industry, here are a few reminders from someone who’s been there:

• You’re allowed to take up space. Don’t dim your work because someone else is uncomfortable with your shine.

• Support the people you actually admire. It builds connection and character.

• Keep your business full of you. No one else can replicate that, no matter how similar the services are.

• Let the weirdness fuel your clarity. The more you stay rooted in your purpose, the less the noise matters.

  
  

And most importantly?

Keep showing up with warmth, confidence, and your own brand of brilliance. That’s what sets you apart, not just what you do, but how you do it.

Here are some tips to turn the saltiness into power:

1. Re-centre your brand

This is the perfect time to make sure your business feels like you. Not watered down. Not like anyone else. Are your socials reflecting your vibe? Does your site sound like you? Would your dream client spot you and go, “Yes. That’s the one”?

If not, let's fix it. Add your face. Add your weird little phrases. Add soul.

2. Celebrate every client win

Post your work. Share that testimonial. Shout out the people who chose you. Don’t downplay it just because someone might be watching. (Let them watch.)

3. Use their silence as proof you’re doing well

The block button isn’t power, it’s proof they’re watching. And that’s okay. You’re not here to make everyone comfortable. You’re here to run a bloody brilliant business.

4. Create a “Petty Project”

Honestly? Channel the drama into a glow-up. Whether it’s a branding refresh, new freebies, or just the best damn content you’ve ever made, use the energy.

5. Stay visible. Stay kind. Stay you.

You don't have to be fake-nice. But you can be kind. You can be the person who supports other businesses, even when they don’t support you. You can be human, and messy, and still generous. That’s power.

So if you’ve had a weird moment with a competitor lately, let me say this clearly:

You didn’t deserve it. You didn’t do anything wrong. And you’re gonna turn that weird little moment into something brilliant. 🖤

Their salt. Your seasoning. Let’s cook something amazing.