Now Read This: Becoming the Best in the World

When you crunch the numbers, fewer than one in a thousand trying to make it in the NBA will make it to the pros. The numbers are similarly bleak for becoming president, a top-selling author, or world champion chess player. While many of us may not be aiming that high, the question remains: for highly competitive fields and positions, how do you stand out? This Forge article suggests working your way to the top 10% in several fields and stacking your unique qualities and abilities as you compete for spots in elite schools and in the workplace.