My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
“turn it into a giving contest”
What It Means
Instead of measuring what you get from relationships, focus on what you can contribute and give to make the relationship stronger
Why It Matters
Shifts relationships from zero-sum competition to positive-sum collaboration, preventing the tit-for-tat dynamics that destroy partnerships
When It's True
When working with trustworthy people who will reciprocate over time, and when you can afford to give more than you receive short-term
When It's Risky
With people who consistently take advantage, or when your own needs aren't being met at all
How to Apply
Ask 'how can I give more?' instead of 'what am I getting?'
Stop keeping score in relationships
Focus on expanding the total pie rather than your slice
Example Scenario
“Instead of thinking 'I handled the last client crisis so my business partner should handle this one,' think 'how can I best support us through this crisis regardless of who did what before?'”