Zero to One by Peter Thiel

2020-08-20 1 min read Sincheenz

This was one of the first startup books that I had picked up. We are at the verge of our strategic product development, and it made sense to get any sort of guidance. A lot of things mentioned in the book are practical and definitely reinforceable, but many other points are very exaggerated and not in line with my own beliefs.

Key takeaways:

It is important to create something new, rather than simply copying and improving. (I believe you do create something new in the process of improving something as well. Sometimes it might be all about simplifying an existing complicated solution.) But I agree that making it so valuable and unique that you own the market is absolutely necessary.
Work on bringing exponential returns and not incremental improvements.
Concentrate on a niche, eventually broadening to reach larger markets.
Uncover untapped potential.
Founders shape companies — not sure if I agree that only the eccentric ones become successful. You only hear more about the eccentric ones as they call enough attention to themselves. I know many successful founders in Europe who have very simple, homely personalities and no drama.
Thinking long-term is very important.
Prioritize sales and distribution.

Interesting read!