My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Multi-Dimensional Deal Analysis
A systematic approach to evaluating business opportunities by examining multiple value creation angles within each deal, rather than looking at single-dimension returns.
How It Works
Instead of just asking 'what's the ROI?', analyze how you can create value through ownership, operations, distribution, licensing, vertical integration, and future deal flow. Look for ways to add leverage and create multiple revenue streams from one investment.
Components
Map all possible value creation angles in the deal
Identify opportunities for vertical integration
Look for recurring revenue potential
Assess your unique leverage or positioning
Consider how this deal enables future deals
Calculate risk-adjusted returns across all dimensions
When to Use
When evaluating any business investment, partnership, or venture creation opportunity where you have operational influence or strategic positioning.
When Not to Use
For passive investments where you have no control or influence over operations and strategy.
Anti-Patterns to Avoid
Example
“Rob invested $10M in Thrill One Media but negotiated additional equity based on his ability to secure a massive TV deal, turning his investment into $60M value overnight while also securing hundreds of millions in production fees.”
Related Knowledge
Launch a premium-priced product in an existing market with superior quality
Product commands 35%+ price premium, achieves low churn rates, and finds its authentic audience through credible endorse
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Paul Graham's Animal Test
An entrepreneur evaluation framework that asks: 'Can you describe this person as an animal?
Jockey Over Horse Investment Philosophy
Prioritizing the quality and capabilities of the founder/team over the business idea when making investment decisions.
Existence Optimization System
A data-driven approach to optimizing all aspects of life (time, health, relationships, work) through continuous measurement, analysis, and adjustment to create consistently high-energy present moments.
Dollar Per Hour Decision Making
Evaluate all time-based decisions through the lens of true hourly value, factoring in post-tax income and total time inv