The Best of What You are.
by Vijay Anand
Malcolm Gladwell in his book “Outliers” talks about a rather interesting theory to becoming an expert. 10,000 hours. The theory is that if you spend 10,000 hours in developing a skill, by the end of it, you’d be an expert in it.
There is common perception that startups are entities who are low on resources, are always constrained by talent and time, and have none of the perks that bigger companies enjoy. That statement couldn’t be more wrong. Startups are infact by definition, entities that are extremely good at what they do, can deliver the next generation of quality and experience at half the cost. If your startup doesnt live up to that promise, its a sure sign that something is seriously wrong.
Lets think about the Logic of this whole matter for a minute. There are bigger companies with loads of cash and resources, and the network to go after the same market that you are aiming for. The only standing chance that a startup has is if you are amazingly good at what you do.
Thats exactly where Malcolm’s theory comes in. Every business has certain crucial aspects. If its a technology company, you are going to need someone who has great R&D background, one who has solid understanding of business and the markets and someone who can manage finances and play complementary roles. You Have to be the absolute best in what you are. When starting up, its worth asking yourself that question, as the destiny of the company you start very much depends on it. If you dont have a skill, its time to sharpen it. 10,000 hours to go!
Vijay – Very well said. Not giving the company or yourselves enough time to learn … and gain “execution” expertise is a common trap that most Es fall into. Expecting raw passion and blind self belief to over come a realistic time to learn … is akin to jumping into the deep end of the pool on day one of a swimming class.
Also, doing it right the first time saves a lot more error cycles … which anyways end up costing a lot more time and money.
A question worth asking … do I really need to be in such a hurry?
@ Sridhar: Yep.
i totally agree. I like this gem from the Outliers ” practice is not what you do when you become good. it is what you do to become good at something”
I some how felt this book was written with me in mind but by the end of it realised that it applies to everyone with a passion and the determination to succeed.