My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Altruism-Narcissism Intersection
Successful consumer products must satisfy both selfish desires (narcissism) and moral/social good (altruism) to create strong, sustainable consumer attachment
Decision Rule
When evaluating product concepts, ask: 'What selfish benefit will make them buy it?' and 'What moral benefit will make them feel good about buying it?' Both must be present.
How It Works
Narcissistic benefits drive initial purchase and usage (aesthetics, status, personal benefit). Altruistic benefits drive repeat purchase and loyalty (sustainability, health, social good). Together they create rational and emotional justification.
Failure Modes
Pure altruism - consumers feel guilty but don't get personal benefit
Pure narcissism - consumers feel shallow and abandon after novelty fades
Weak altruism - not enough moral justification for premium pricing
Conflicting benefits - altruistic and narcissistic benefits contradict each other
Example Decision
“Method soap succeeded because people bought it for narcissistic reasons (beautiful design, nice fragrance, status of eco-conscious choice) but felt good about altruistic benefits (non-toxic, sustainable, good for planet).”
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