My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Authentic Personal Connection to Mission is Essential
Evidence
Both successful businesses built on deeply personal experiences - addiction in family driving nonprofit, fitness obsession driving SolidCore
Implication
Entrepreneurs should choose problems that connect to their authentic personal experience rather than just market opportunities
Counter Belief
Market size and opportunity matter more than personal connection
Example Application
A founder who struggled with anxiety builds a mental health app rather than chasing the latest tech trend
Related Knowledge
Solve the Problem, Don't Fight the Position
A negotiation approach that focuses on understanding the underlying needs and constraints of the other party rather than
High Standards as Market Signal
Setting expectations and requirements high enough that some people self-select out, which actually increases desire amon
Addiction Transfer for Positive Outcomes
A systematic approach to redirecting addictive personalities toward positive, constructive behaviors rather than trying to eliminate the addictive tendency entirely.
Play a Game You Can Win Framework
A decision-making framework for choosing opportunities where your unique background, skills, and circumstances give you an unfair advantage over competitors.
Raise $1M+ for nonprofit in first year
Consistent monthly fundraising of $80k+ from corporate sponsors and individual donors who become long-term supporters
Open profitable physical location business with minimal capital
First location generating $100k+ monthly revenue within 30 days, with clear path to additional locations