My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
Category of One Strategy
Instead of competing in existing categories, create a new category where you're the only player
Decision Rule
Ask: Can I change some fundamental aspect of the business model to avoid direct competition?
How It Works
Works because customers mentally categorize options - being the only option in your category means no direct comparison
Failure Modes
Creating category that customers don't understand or want
Making category too narrow to be profitable
Failing to defend category when competitors enter
Example Decision
“Five Hour Energy avoided competing with Red Bull and Monster by creating energy shots category at checkout counters instead of refrigerated energy drinks”
Related Knowledge
Rich people don't gamble because they understand edge calculations
Financial education should focus on understanding statistical disadvantages
Footprint Disruption Strategy
Creating a new category by dramatically changing the physical footprint and location requirements of an existing busines
Symbiotic Business Integration
A business model where your product increases host location revenue while you benefit from their foot traffic and infras
Keep Your Sails Up Philosophy
Maintaining readiness and taking positive actions even during difficult periods so you can capitalize when opportunities
Scale a food business through minimal-investment franchise model
Thousands of small-footprint locations generating steady ingredient sales with minimal ongoing support required
Create income stream by flipping high-demand restaurant reservations
$70K annual income from flipping reservations at premium restaurants with minimal time investment