Disrupt You! summary

In the early 1990s, computers were still fairly new. Countless entrepreneurs were competing in a race to monetize technological innovation. Who wound up winning, you might ask? The last person you’d expect. 

The first start-up to sell for $100 million during that era wasn’t a software or hardware company. It wasn’t launched by a coding connoisseur. In fact, its founder, Billy Myers, didn’t even know how to use a computer. 

Of course, having a lightbulb moment is just the beginning. Upon closer inspection, many ideas – even “million-dollar” ones – aren’t so fantastic after all. That brings us to another valuable lesson: When something stinks, kick it to the curb. 

Once upon a time, there was a website called Tune In Hook Up. Ever heard of it? Didn’t think so. 

What is a cell phone? No, this isn’t a question from Jeopardy – and yes, it does sound absurd. But don’t brush it off just yet. 

When you purchase a new cell phone, are you buying a palm-sized piece of metal? Or are you buying a way of connecting with people across the globe? Of course, the answer is obvious. You’re not purchasing a physical object, but rather the possibilities it unlocks. You’re buying the ability to call friends and family at any time. You’re investing in communication, community, and comfort – which are all far more valuable than just some metal and plastic.

In 2010, a young copywriter named Alec Brownstein was dying to move up in the advertising industry. He dreamed of working for some of New York’s top creative directors. He wanted to brainstorm for world-class clients – to brush shoulders with brilliant innovators.

But there was a problem. None of those people knew Brownstein even existed.

So what have we learned thus far? First of all, the best entrepreneurs aren’t lucky; they’re logical. Second, they make a career of straying from the status quo, always keeping their ears and eyes open for new opportunities. Third, they listen to the market – and aren’t afraid to scrap an old idea that has stopped working. Fourth, they don’t sell products; they sell solutions. Fifth, they make bold moves – recognizing that a series of minor risks can add up to a major reward. 

There’s one more thing successful entrepreneurs have in common: they move fast. And you should do the same.