Entrepreneurs

Headspace’s CEO on what industry is overlooking by formula of psychological health

Published

1 year ago

August 17, 2023

Headspace’s CEO on what industry is overlooking by formula of psychological health

On this week’s episode of Fortune‘s Leadership Next podcast, co-host Michal Lev-Ram talks with Headspace Smartly being CEO Russ Glass about what industry is presently getting coarse about psychological health, how leaders can handiest enhance their workers while taking care of themselves, and the contrivance meditation changed his lifestyles. Co-host Alan Murray, who became now not fraction of the interview this week, joins Lev-Ram for the pre-interview chat.

Hear to the episode or read the fleshy transcript below.

Transcript:

Alan Murray: Leadership Next is powered by the folks at Deloitte, who, cherish me, are exploring the altering principles of industry leadership and the contrivance CEOs are navigating this swap.

Welcome to Leadership Next, the podcast about the altering principles of industry leadership. I’m Alan Murray.

Michal Lev-Ram: And I’m Michal Lev-Ram. Alan, ever since the pandemic, I actually feel cherish there are a handful of issues that CEOs—and industry journalists—withhold returning to repeatedly and again. In truth, it became the realm of our newest episode with Howard Lerman of Run—tech innovation spurred by lockdowns and work from the home, the return-to-work debate, and the significance of worker psychological health.

Murray: Yeah, and I judge one in every of the causes we withhold talking about that ultimate one, about worker psychological health, is that companies aren’t slightly particular in the event that they’re doing a real job. We know that there are loads of considerations obtainable, and it’s actually exploded as a workplace philosophize. Everyone now appears to be like to agree it’s fundamental, but they don’t know the final phrase formula to enhance their crew.

Lev-Ram: Smartly, our visitor as of late desires to aid with that! He’s Russ Glass, the CEO of Headspace Smartly being—which is a stamp that doubtlessly loads of of us are accustomed to. It’s a meditation app, or actually that’s what it became is named for years. However they’re going to now not realize that just a few years ago, Headspace merged with an organization called Ginger, which ran an enterprise industry, providing workers coaching, therapy, and psychiatry services and products. The mixed company is named Headspace Smartly being, and the aim became to bring all of these sources under one platform.

Murray: Yeah, and a actually luminous stride to motivate enterprise companies, as there might per chance be loads of keep a question to for it. The company says it now serves 4,000 employers all the contrivance through 200 countries, and that quite a lot of million of us actively exhaust the Headspace app each month.

Lev-Ram: Yea, Alan, I’ll explain you one thing I learned in the interview that in actuality taken aback me—in step with a Headspace Smartly being detect, 49 p.c of workers explain they actually feel a sense of dread at work now not lower than as soon as a week—and that number rises to 59 p.c for CEOs! I hope you’re now not feeling any dread lawful now, Alan! However what stop you have confidence about that?

Murray: Never any dread about becoming a member of you for a Leadership Next podcast. However sadly, I did dread the truth I wasn’t able to hitch you for this one, on account of right here’s one in every of my popular issues.

Lev-Ram: We omitted you. I do know right here’s a topic that is near and expensive to your heart. By the formula, we also had an extended dialog, Russ and I, about elevating daughters—something we are all residing through and fill lived through and we can issue to—the three of us. Russ is de facto one in every of the few leaders we’ve spoken to on this podcast who stepped aid from his occupation to lift his formative years. Sooner than becoming a member of Headspace, he became a fleshy time dad for 18 months, and he talked about it and what an unimaginable, amazing replacement it became for him.

Murray: Wow, but let’s now not discuss him, let’s check with him. Let’s secure lawful to as of late’s interview. Here’s Michal’s interview with Headspace Smartly being CEO, Russ Glass.

[Music]

Lev-Ram: Ok. So, Russ, sooner than we dive into the real industry right here, real slightly little bit of context right here, about you. So earlier than becoming a member of Ginger as CEO, you’d started a sequence of companies. Here’s now not your first gig right here. A range of tech-targeted companies, obviously. This appears to be like cherish slightly little bit of a jump coming into a longtime company in the psychological health rental. How did this near about?

Russ Glass: Yeah, it is a ways a jump. This if truth be told is my first health care company. All of my prior entrepreneurial endeavors and startups and whatnot, were in thoroughly different kinds of tech, whether media or recordsdata or enterprise software. And as soon as I left LinkedIn, I actually didn’t fill any roughly newest tips or desire, and I real wished to be a dad. So, I’ve received three daughters, and I spent the final phrase 9 years targeted on the corporate, and I actually wished to exhaust time with them. So I left. And after about 18 months, I made up my mind that, okay, I wasn’t ready to be retired forever. And I needed to return and stop something. However if I became going to head away them daily, it indispensable to be for something that became impactful, something that the world actually indispensable. And I discovered Ginger, I diagnosed real how fundamental the psychological health disaster became, and the offer-keep a question to imbalance that existed. I felt cherish I might per chance exhaust the comfort of my occupation targeted on it.

Lev-Ram: Ok, so, I’m gonna aid up for a 2nd. We’ve interviewed loads of leaders on this podcast, female and male, I don’t judge we’ve ever had somebody discuss over with us about, you know, stepping apart to lift their daughters. So I’m unparalleled to hear real slightly bit extra about that. I mean, became that a noteworthy willpower to get? What reactions did you secure even as you happen to told of us?

Glass: You understand, I mean, keep in mind, my first daughter became born about three months after I started this company, Bizo, that I finally supplied to LinkedIn. My third daughter became born about a week sooner than I supplied the corporate. And so as that total six years of constructing an organization became on the the same time that I became elevating these shrimp folk, you know, and then I went to LinkedIn. And that became an intense three years. So as that became 9 years of me now not placing them first. And I form of diagnosed that you can by no formula secure this time aid. And I felt cherish I became, you know, actually privileged enough to fill the sources to lift time away. And my companion also has a actually a success occupation. And so I took a step aid, and also you know, literally to on the present time, I fill relationships with them that I wouldn’t fill had in any other case, you know, and so it became one in every of the final phrase choices I’ve made in my occupation.

Lev-Ram: Smartly, one thing the three of us right here fill in fundamental, the two of us and Alan, is we all fill gotten to lift ladies and soundless secure to total it. So I commend you for that.

Glass: We’re lucky, we’re all lucky.

Lev-Ram: Fully, absolutely. So I are looking to return to Ginger and Headspace. And I judge, you know, perchance now not all individuals’s accustomed to the merger that came about. And so give us slightly little bit of a sense of real what became Ginger, what became Headspace? And what are they mixed?

Glass: Ginger became actually a class creator in digital psychological health. So Ginger diagnosed this mountainous offer-keep a question to imbalance that exists on this planet. The World Smartly being Group estimates about a billion of us who fill a identified psychological health situation, and 60% of them aren’t getting enhance. And an tall fraction of that is on account of there aren’t enough suppliers obtainable, there aren’t alternatives obtainable to scale secure entry to. So Ginger became targeted on that philosophize. On the opposite facet, Headspace, again, is roughly a class creator. It became founded by literally a Buddhist monk, Andy Puddicombe, and he went to see meditation and mindfulness in Tibet, and undercover agent the mountainous vitality of mindfulness to clear up just a few of the psychological health wants in standard humanity. And, you know, loads of the world has diagnosed this for hundreds of years and has by no formula lost it in Eastern cultures. However in quite a lot of the Western society, we’ve form of lost the working out of the vitality of mindfulness and meditation. So Headspace introduced that to the world, and created a scalable formula to coach of us fabricate mindfulness and exhaust that to clear up these kinds of psychological health wants now we fill. Bringing both companies together, the concept is to develop the most comprehensive, most scalable approach to clear up this psychological health need of the world. And the combination of these implausible experiences and the actual person interfaces, that Headspace is constructed to coach and aid of us follow it this meditation direction. And then Ginger, the on-keep a question to psychological health system. In the event you bring both of this stuff together, you now stay wide awake with something slightly noteworthy, which is having the flexibility to attain the keep of us are in their psychological gallop, info them to the lawful alternatives for the wants and be their lifelong info to psychological health enhance .

Lev-Ram: So can you discuss slightly bit extra about real what the breakdown is income wise, at this point, of what’s coming from the actual person rental, Headspace, and what proportion is coming from the enterprise, industry facet, at this point.

Glass: At this point, the income is coming, for the most fraction, from the enterprise facet of the industry. We’ve considered slightly important verbalize, I judge, a little bit of driven by the pandemic and the recognition of real how fundamental right here’s, roughly accelerated consciousness of heart of attention on psychological health. And now we witness that enterprise’s top three heart of attention areas slightly continuously, is psychological health and making particular that workers fill secure entry to, and workers are given the instruments they ought to soundless be a success. And an increasing number of we’re seeing health plans also impress that funding in psychological health is a mandatory fraction of total particular person health, and making particular that you defend a wholesome population and prick health care costs downstream. And so as that’s been a real verbalize driver of the organization actually, since the merger.

Lev-Ram: Are you concerned the least bit that just a few of that pandemic generation verbalize is slowing down? Or that this isn’t going to be sticky enough? Esteem if the recession does hit if, you know, there are extra layoffs? Esteem we’ve considered? Are these packages that anyone’s slicing? Or are they sticking?

Glass: You understand, it’s silly, we weren’t particular, you know, popping out of the pandemic, what we would witness. We weren’t particular at a recessionary duration if we’d witness pullback. And I would explain, for the most fraction, at this point, we’re slightly convinced that we’re now not seeing a publish pandemic pullback as a starting point. I judge the pandemic absolutely accelerated the consciousness in the need. However publish-pandemic, we haven’t considered any form of retrenchment in need. The elevated psychological health concerns fill remained. We witness stats, cherish 90% of workers are feeling either a little bit of or very wired on a weekly foundation, we’re seeing 49% of workers feeling dread at work on a weekly foundation. So these are the roughly stats that companies are having to take care of lawful now. And in express that they’ve maintained a heart of attention on it.

Lev-Ram: I are looking to interrupt you real on the dread portion, cherish, did you secure any readability in that see on what which formula to of us? Fright is now not associated with something real, for particular. However what does that in actuality mean that folks are feeling dread at work?

Glass: Yeah, this came from our Team of workers Attitudes document. We’ve completed this now for five years working, right here’s from our 2023 see. And as we dug into it, there were three fundamental areas. One became financial instability, so being concerned about having a job and asserting that. Two became productiveness pressures, so you know, how somebody is showing up at work feeling cherish they’ve to secure a sequence of things completed. And in the event that they don’t, are they gonna lose their job, lawful? And then three is correct extra rising expectations, the level of quality that the replacement for others to roughly near in and lift these roles. I judge there’s also a a ways away ingredient in all of this as correctly. I judge there is a loneliness ingredient. I judge there might per chance be now not doubtless attending to know your colleagues as correctly even as you happen to’re now not working as closely with them. So, there’s loads of things tied up on this. And I judge we’re in the very early days of working out it. However within that is, of us are of us who’re soundless suffering. And companies are recognizing that, they customarily’ve maintained a heart of attention that psychological health is an rental they’ve to put money into. I would explain the final phrase rental we’re seeing some recessionary shift is in form of miniature to medium industry. We’re seeing that just a few of these funding choices are taking longer. We’re seeing that they’re extra targeted on return on funding, so the selections are going into the CFO’s status of job bigger than they were sooner than. So, slightly little bit of a shift there. However for the most fraction, we’ve considered a continuation of the pandemic traits of this being severe to the enterprise.

[Music starts]

Murray: Jason Girzadas, the CEO of Deloitte US, is the sponsor of this podcast and joins me as of late. Welcome, Jason.

Jason Girzadas: Thanks, Alan. It’s tall to be right here.

Murray: Jason, we dwell in an generation of disruption, know-how disruption, geopolitical disruption, workplace disruption. And it makes real predictions about what’s going to happen in due course extra hard than it has ever been. Yet the polls that we stop together, with you, indicate that nearly all industry leaders largely remain optimistic. Why stop you have confidence that is?

Girzadas: I judge optimism is a outcome of the truth that we’ve been through an extremely tumultuous three years. And so I judge industry leaders realize that they’ve constructed resiliency into their organizations. The prospect of even extra disruption isn’t as international of a thought. And I judge there’s extra self belief in their skill to adapt and to be agile. Secondarily, there’s been mountainous funding in know-how and unusual capabilities that client organizations, and executives broadly are optimistic about these increasing extra price and extra replacement. So, it’s a characteristic of what we’ve been through, as well to the investments which fill been made, that give a sense of optimism despite just a few of the headwinds.

Murray: And what’s your advice to companies which would be combating the functionality disruption in due course?

Girzadas: Smartly, disruption is the unusual customary. I don’t judge there’s any placid water on the horizon or calmness that we can predict. So, it’s a characteristic of getting accustomed to the discontinuities which would be sooner than us. Whether or now not it’s around know-how or geopolitical swap, or workplace adjustments associated with the contrivance forward for labor or the requires of the flexibility workforce, swap is the unusual customary. Which skill that, it is requiring executive teams to in point of fact keep in mind holistically at these challenges, be facile with doing scenario planning, and being searching for the keep and capitalize on disruption, versus being concerned by it, or considered as a barrier to their success.

Murray: Jason, thanks in your viewpoint, and thanks for sponsoring Leadership Next. Thanks.

[Music ends]

Lev-Ram: What stop you might per chance presumably be feeling cherish companies are getting lawful, and what are they getting coarse, about psychological health? I mean, there’s no doubt, you know, we’ve lined so many replacement initiatives and consciousness and services and products and coverage for rising coverage for psychological health. However the companies which would be getting it lawful, what are they doing?

Glass: It’s a tall question. I’d explain there are two things that the companies who’re doing actually correctly are doing, that now not all companies are doing. One is, they’re specializing in custom swap. And in express that they’re specializing in normalizing psychological health conversations. And generally, which formula they’ve executives on the organization, or of us in positions of leadership, which would be openly talking about psychological health. And that normalization is mountainous fundamental, on account of it enables all individuals in the corporate to in point of fact feel cherish they’ll elevate their hand and fragment that they might per chance presumably fill some enhance, or they might per chance presumably fill some aid. And that’s one. Two, then, is a heart of attention on prevention. I judge loads of companies are eager about how they keep sources in status to aid enhance secure entry to. They’re finding that their health plans, you know, the networks are insufficient, so of us aren’t able to hunt down therapists or, or psychiatrists that lift insurance that, you know, don’t require these mountainous out-of-pocket costs. However until you heart of attention on prevention, you’re missing an tall proportion of the population that’s quietly suffering, that you know, are either dealing with dread, on a slightly consistent foundation, or are seeing elevated stress levels that in the waste will lead to burnout until these of us are getting the instruments that they’ve to prick stress.

Lev-Ram: And it’s attention-grabbing, on account of you introduced up the a ways away component, and that, now not lower than in some cases, and for some of us, it’s contributing to considerations, lawful, and loneliness, feeling disconnected. Then on the the same time, you know, we’re seeing loads of pushback on the return-to-status of job mandates. As a CEO, your self, also, how stop you navigate that? What advice stop you give for leaders in form of, you know, balancing that? Resulting from it’ll very correctly, we’ve considered recordsdata that shows it’s real for productiveness to secure of us aid, now not lower than in some skill, it’ll even be real for his or her psychological health. And but loads of workers also care deeply about asserting some level of flexibility.

Glass: You understand, I judge you’re naming one in every of the most attention-grabbing and complex challenges of our time as leaders lawful now, lawful, the time that we’re all finding ourselves. And the predominant thing I’d explain is, there’s nobody-dimension-suits-all, you know. Each and every company, each industry has very thoroughly different wants in phrases of a ways away versus in-particular person. On one facet of the equation, there are some operations that totally require in-particular person workforces. Surgical blueprint, actually fundamental that somebody that is in-particular person, lawful? In the event you’re working a producing line, it is a ways extremely fundamental fill of us in-particular person. I judge it’s fundamental to undercover agent that it’s now not one-dimension-suits-all. I judge the 2nd thing that’s fundamental to undercover agent is, there are very real wants on either side of this. So I don’t judge there’s any doubt that there’s loneliness that’s being created, particularly for the younger populations which would be at home the total time, in a a ways away context. You understand, for hundreds of years, literally since the invention of agriculture, humanity has been making their handiest guests at work. And we are a social creature, we are a creature that wants these interactions. And so when that’s pulled a ways flung from us, there’s, unnecessary to explain, there’s going to be loneliness, lawful, unnecessary to explain, you’re going to fill of us who’re suffering. So as that’s one. And two, there’s clearly a longitudinal price to now not having in-particular person interactions at work. We’ve considered some recordsdata, both internally and externally, that shows that folks who’re now not showing up at locations of work are much less at risk of be promoted. We’ve considered recordsdata that shows (nevertheless it’s very early days and all of this) there’s loads of see that soundless desires to be completed. However there’s some recordsdata that shows that folks who’re now not getting these in particular person interactions aren’t going to progress in their careers as hasty as of us who’re. And so as that’s one in every of the spectrums that it’s particular that there’s price to in-particular person interaction, both to the person as well to to the productiveness in sure cases, lawful. However on the opposite facet of that, you absolutely fill a workforce that loves the flexibility, and in some cases wants the flexibility. In the event you might per chance presumably be a single father or mother, lawful, and also you wish with a thought to design while elevating a household. So it’s fundamental as leaders to undercover agent either side of this, and work in the direction of increasing opportunities. And serving to of us undercover agent that going to the status of job is de facto going to be treasured for you and the organization.

Lev-Ram: Ok, I are looking to position a question to you, real rapidly, real on the aggressive landscape, and obviously, as keep a question to grew, someday of the pandemic, for services and products, cherish Headspace, and Ginger, and what you guys offer, so did the sequence of apps and services and products that offer psychological health, whether it’s purely digital or now not. In gentle of this proliferation, how stop you keep in mind at what you’re providing, as you’re early on, obviously, and also you established your stamp, both of the manufacturers, but how stop you be particular you defend differentiated, that you withhold innovating, as the market has evolved slightly a lot?

Glass: Smartly, you know, first, I judge, one in every of the causes that we did the merger in the predominant status, is on account of we diagnosed that there’s an tall spectrum of psychological health need and even as you happen to measure, and also you stop a real job of working out the keep somebody is, what you undercover agent is that incessantly the status they’ve to head, whether it be real self-care, roughly mindfulness, meditation, respiratory, thoroughly different, better sleep habits, or behavioral health coaching, subclinical sources that aid of us fabricate a conception and stop an even bigger job of lifestyle swap or stop an even bigger job of managing your psychological situation, the total formula to therapy and psychiatry. Most of us don’t fill any thought what they need, most of us real know they’re now not feeling tall. And what we diagnosed became if we might per chance aid destigmatize, which is loads of what the Headspace stamp does, it real makes it easy to initiate, and we can measure and aid info of us to the lawful status, we clear up loads of the psychological health wants. Resulting from we secure of us in earlier, we secure them working out what these wants are, and we cheaply bringing them to secure entry to. So we’re solving loads of the need by bringing these items together. And what we saw became loads of point alternatives obtainable. We saw loads of thoroughly different apps and thoroughly different experiences that were selecting off very miniature ingredients of the philosophize. However on the head of the day, the trick with that, one, is that companies they’re drained of the total supplier fatigue, lawful from the total thoroughly different distributors, particularly in the pandemic. Everyone sold loads of stuff and realized that if truth be told wasn’t getting ancient and that there became real fatigue there. However secondly, if somebody doesn’t know what they need, it’s very hard to kind through the hundreds of thoroughly different apps and experiences and things which would be being constructed. And we actually wished to lift that on, we wished to aid of us impress and then present the lion’s fragment of enhance that they might per chance presumably fill. And that’s why we are asserting, you know, we actually judge Headspace is the most comprehensive psychological health platform obtainable lawful now on account of we introduced these items together in a formula that is real much less friction stuffed for somebody to secure entry to.

Lev-Ram: Ok, and one extra question extra on the private facet for you, I do know you might per chance presumably be now not the Buddhist monk on the corporate that became the founder. However you seem slightly grounded, and, you know, balanced and a bit Zen. So I’m wondering, what advice stop you’ve for busy leaders who fill to prick out that point? And what stop you stop individually, to make particular you’re taking care of your self? And that you can’t real explain Headspace!

Glass: No, I promise, I received’t! However I will explain that, you know, as soon as I supplied my ultimate company, that became an organization that I supplied to LinkedIn, and I had real had my third child, and I received into the unusual company, and I became, I became struggling. I wasn’t sleeping correctly, I had an toddler at home, I became combating some imposter syndrome. I went from a couple 100-particular person company to a 6,000-particular person company. I had by no formula labored at any status that tall. And I actually didn’t know if I became decrease out for it. I mean, I began to doubt myself. And Jeff Weiner, the then CEO, introduced Andy Puddicombe, the CEO of Headspace, in to discuss over with LinkedIn, as an organization. And I downloaded the app someday of the discuss. And I started doing meditation note. And it’s silly, cherish it didn’t stop something in the predominant week, it didn’t stop something for two weeks, but I became dedicated to it reason I’d heard tall things about it, and I’d heard Andy discuss and all that real stuff. In the third week, I became in a assembly. And all of a surprising it clicked, this comment that became made that can fill resulted in my fright, would fill resulted in my stress response. I celebrated it. And I real roughly let it stride. It hit me what mindfulness is all about. It’s now not about altering something about, you know, the world. Feelings soundless happen, fright soundless occurs, nevertheless it’s about your response to it, it’s about having the flexibility to undercover agent it, let it stride, and fill a thoroughly different response to those triggers and fill a thoroughly different response to those anxieties. And that has been a game changer for me, now not handiest from a leadership standpoint, but from a martial standpoint, from being a father standpoint. So as that is mandatory. I would explain just a few other things, even though. One is sleep. I secure now not lower than seven hours of sleep. And if I don’t, I actually feel it. I don’t fill the endurance, I don’t fill the flexibility to administer the U.S. of americaand downs that happen In an atmosphere cherish this, without real sleep. I stop a actually real job of taking breaks. Regarded as among the things I’ve completed for years is block Friday afternoons, the keep I don’t lift any conferences. And I exhaust that point to catch up. And I do know for the length of the week, it helps my psychological health on account of even on Wednesday, if I’m real slammed, I do know I fill that block increasing, so I don’t secure as wired in the 2nd, I fill that Friday afternoon. If I secure to Friday afternoon, and I’m feeling slightly real about the weekend, and I’m going to be newest with my household on account of I don’t fill noteworthy catching up to total, I’d stop something for myself that afternoon. I’d stride play golf, I’d stride on a hike, or something cherish that. I are trying and total that for the length of the week. I fill very conscious schedules, so as that I will stretch, half my one on ones I stop outdoors so I will stroll. So these items that allow me to embody, you know, physical and psychological health for the length of the week to allow me to defend sustainable and never burn myself out in what is, as I’m particular you’ve heard, a actually complex time to be a stir-setter.

Lev-Ram: And Headspace, lawful?

Glass: And Headspace, that’s lawful.

Lev-Ram: Smartly, I cherish ending on real some tactical takeaways. So thanks so noteworthy for becoming a member of us, Russ, and sharing with us about Headspace and leadership on this actually soundless slightly crazy time. Devour it.

Glass: Devour you, Michal, taking the time.

[Music starts]

Leadership Next is edited and produced by Alexis Haut. Our theme is by Jason Snell. Our executive producer is Megan Arnold. Leadership Next is a product of Fortune Media.

Leadership Next episodes are produced by Fortune‘s editorial crew. The views and opinions expressed by podcast audio system and company are thoroughly their fill and stop now not replicate the opinions of Deloitte or its personnel. Nor does Deloitte recommend or endorse any individuals or entities featured on the episodes.

Entrepreneurs

How Ivan Zhao Built a $10 Billion Digital Workspace Gen Z is Flocking To

Published

1 week ago

December 13, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

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Ivan Zhao, the visionary cofounder and CEO of Notion, has built more than just a digital workspace — he’s crafted a platform that’s rapidly becoming an essential tool for the next generation. As Gen Z continues to dominate the digital landscape, Ivan Zhao’s success with Notion is impressive, with the company now valued at $10 billion. But what sets Zhao apart from other tech founders is his unique approach to business, which draws inspiration from ancient philosophy.

The Genesis of Notion: A Bold Vision from Ivan Zhao and Simon Last

It all started in 2013 when Ivan Zhao and his cofounder Simon Last launched a startup aimed at making app and website development simpler. However, the initial product didn’t catch on as they had hoped. Rather than succumbing to failure, Zhao and Last made a bold move — they relocated to Kyoto, Japan, seeking clarity and a new perspective. It was in Kyoto, with its serene surroundings and deep philosophical roots, that the duo reimagined Notion as a flexible digital workspace designed to meet the diverse needs of users.

This pivot to creating Notion marked a turning point in their entrepreneurial journey, as the platform soon became an all-in-one tool that combined note-taking, task management, collaboration, and more. Today, it’s the workspace that millions of Gen Z users flock to for its unparalleled customization and simplicity.

Ivan Zhao’s Success with Notion is Impressive — But It’s About More Than Just Business

While Notion’s rise is a story of entrepreneurial triumph, it’s also a reflection of Ivan Zhao’s personal philosophy. Zhao is not only the CEO of Notion, but also a thinker deeply inspired by nature and systems theory. He applies these principles to his company in a way that sets him apart from typical Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. Zhao doesn’t view business simply as a race to scale; he sees it as a process of building systems that work harmoniously.

“Nature is the perfect system,” Zhao explains. “If you observe the balance in nature, it’s all interconnected. I want Notion to function the same way — where every part of the company serves a larger purpose.”

This deep belief in the power of systems thinking has allowed Zhao to craft a company culture and product that thrives on feedback loops and continuous improvement. The result? Notion has evolved into a truly adaptable platform that grows with its users — a trait that’s been integral to its success with Gen Z and beyond.

How an Ancient Philosophy Built a $10 Billion Company

Zhao’s approach to scaling Notion is deeply rooted in ancient philosophy. Inspired by systems thinking, Zhao believes that just like a healthy ecosystem, every component of Notion should work together to foster long-term growth and sustainability. His product development process is designed to be fluid and responsive, just like a natural environment.

This philosophy extends to Notion’s customer service as well. Zhao receives notifications directly to his phone each time a user submits a support ticket, reflecting his commitment to integrating user feedback into the platform’s ongoing evolution. This continuous loop of feedback ensures that Notion is always evolving to meet the needs of its diverse user base, including students, creators, and professionals.

Ivan Zhao’s Leadership Style: Leading Through Systems, Not Hustle

What truly sets Ivan Zhao apart from many other tech leaders is his focus on building systems that are sustainable and adaptable. Rather than focusing solely on short-term growth or following the traditional “hustle” mentality, Zhao thinks in terms of long-term evolution — much like the systems found in nature.

“I believe that success in business doesn’t come from the hustle culture,” Zhao says. “It comes from creating a system where every part is connected and working toward a common goal.”

This philosophy has not only shaped the way Notion operates internally but has also influenced its external success. Zhao’s ability to think strategically and implement systems thinking has helped Notion grow rapidly while maintaining a strong focus on customer experience and product quality.

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The Future of Notion: A Digital Workspace for the Modern World

As Notion continues to expand, Ivan Zhao’s vision remains focused on creating a platform that empowers users to work smarter, not harder. Notion’s recent expansion into a template marketplace — where users can sell custom templates — adds an entirely new dimension to the platform, enabling creators to monetize their expertise.

Zhao’s success story is a testament to the power of blending modern technology with ancient wisdom. His philosophy of interconnected systems has created a company that doesn’t just thrive in the competitive tech world — it evolves with its users, creating a unique and sustainable digital workspace for the modern age.

For Ivan Zhao, the journey is just beginning. With a company valued at $10 billion and millions of users worldwide, Notion’s potential is limitless. As he continues to lead the company, Zhao’s commitment to integrating systems thinking and philosophy into his business model offers a blueprint for the next generation of tech leaders.

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Master the Art of Delegation: Lessons from Andrew Carnegie’s Legacy

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master-delegation-skills-insights-andrew-carnegie

Andrew Carnegie’s remarkable journey from a poor Scottish immigrant to the richest man in the world is a testament to the power of effective delegation. His success story offers valuable lessons for today’s entrepreneurs on how to build scalable businesses and lead with vision. Mastering the art of delegation was key to Carnegie’s achievements, and understanding his approach can transform your business strategy.

Andrew Carnegie’s Legacy teaches us that true success doesn’t come from doing everything ourselves. Rather, it’s about surrounding yourself with talented individuals and trusting them to excel in areas where they’re stronger than you. By empowering his team, Carnegie could focus on high-level strategy and growth, allowing his empire to thrive without his constant involvement in daily operations. This method of delegation is something every modern entrepreneur should embrace.

Effective delegation is not just about offloading tasks; it’s about creating a system where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. Carnegie knew that by hiring the right people and empowering them with the autonomy to make decisions, he could focus on the bigger picture. His managers had clear guidelines, reported directly to him, and were trusted to execute his vision.

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One of the core lessons of Andrew Carnegie’s leadership is that a business built on collaboration will achieve far greater heights than one relying solely on a single individual. Carnegie didn’t want to be the smartest person in the room; he valued expertise and delegated complex tasks to those more qualified. This approach enabled him to scale his business rapidly, creating a legacy that still serves as a blueprint for effective leadership today.

By incorporating Andrew Carnegie’s principles of delegation, you can unlock your business’s full potential. Empower your team, set up clear systems, and focus on what truly matters: innovation, growth, and leadership. Master the art of delegation, and watch your business soar to new heights.

Business

10 Influencer Marketing Trends for 2025

Published

3 weeks ago

December 5, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

In 2025, influencer marketing will continue its transformation, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and a growing focus on authenticity. From AI-driven personalization to the rise of micro and nano influencers, here’s what brands need to know to stay ahead.

1. Creators Become Advisors & Consultants

Influencers are evolving beyond content creators to become trusted advisors and consultants for brands. By offering strategic insights and industry expertise, they are shaping campaigns from ideation to execution, making their role integral to brand growth.

2. AI-Driven Personalization in Influencer Marketing

AI and machine learning are empowering brands to create highly targeted campaigns. By analyzing audience preferences and behaviors, AI enables hyper-personalization that aligns influencers with niche audiences, ensuring maximum relevance and engagement.

3. Rise of Micro and Nano Influencers

As authenticity takes precedence, micro and nano influencers take the lead in campaigns. Their close-knit communities and relatable content foster trust, making them powerful brand advocates. These influencers are particularly effective in aspiration-driven markets, where audiences seek relatable success stories.

4. AI for Ideation

From brainstorming content ideas to refining creative strategies, AI tools are streamlining the ideation process for brands and influencers alike. This innovation not only accelerates campaign development but also ensures content resonates with target audiences.

5. Socio-Economic Shifts Drive Premiumization

As socio-economic shifts fuel positive rural sentiment and an aspiration for premium products, brands are partnering with influencers to tap into these emerging markets. This trend highlights the importance of culturally relevant storytelling in influencer campaigns.

6. More LinkedInfluencers on the Rise

LinkedIn is becoming a hotspot for professional influencers or “LinkedInfluencers.” These creators are collaborating with B2B brands to drive thought leadership, position products as solutions, and amplify professional networks.

7. Hyper-Personalization and Niche Influencers Dominate

In 2025, campaigns will focus on niche influencers catering to specific interests and demographics. This hyper-personalization ensures brands connect deeply with targeted communities, boosting loyalty and conversions.

8. Influencer Marketing Statistics for 2025 Highlight Growth

Influencer marketing is projected to grow to $24 billion by 2025, with 85% of marketers allocating dedicated budgets to influencer campaigns. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram continue to dominate, but emerging tools like AI-powered analytics make ROI measurement more precise than ever.

9. AI and Machine Learning for Personalization

AI and machine learning for personalization are transforming how brands connect with consumers. These technologies identify audience trends and predict behaviors, enabling influencers to deliver tailored content that feels both organic and impactful.

10. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Influencers advocating for sustainable practices and social causes are becoming key to campaigns. Brands are embracing these partnerships to align with conscious consumer values, making a positive impact on both communities and the planet.

As the influencer marketing landscape evolves, leveraging tools like AI for ideation and fostering relationships with micro and nano influencers will be critical. By embracing hyper-personalization and addressing socio-economic shifts, brands can create campaigns that resonate deeply with their audiences. The future of influencer marketing lies in meaningful, authentic, and tech-driven collaborations.

Entrepreneurs

Crypto Entrepreneur Justin Sun and the $6 Million Banana: A Blend of Art, Blockchain, and Outer Space Dreams

Published

1 month ago

November 22, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

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In a dazzling mix of cryptocurrency culture and modern art, Crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun recently purchased a $6 million banana artwork, Comedian, by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan. The piece, consisting of a banana duct-taped to a wall, has stirred both admiration and debate since its debut at Art Basel in 2019, where it was promptly eaten by a performance artist. Despite its ephemeral nature, the artwork’s value lies in its certificate of authenticity and its bold commentary on the meaning of art and value.

Sun, the Chinese founder of the Tron blockchain, outbid six contenders at Sotheby’s auction to own the provocative artwork. For Sun, the purchase is more than a headline-grabbing acquisition. He plans to personally eat the banana, continuing the playful yet profound tradition of engaging with the artwork in unconventional ways. However, thanks to the certificate of authenticity, a roll of duct tape, and a detailed 14-page manual, Sun retains the ability to recreate the artwork—complete with specifications on the banana’s orientation and placement.

The crypto billionaire’s purchase highlights the intersection of art, wealth, and blockchain culture, a world where ownership and authenticity often take precedence over tangible assets. Sun’s interest in the piece extends beyond personal consumption; he recently suggested sending the banana to space. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sun proposed donating the banana to Elon Musk for attachment to a SpaceX rocket, envisioning its journey to the Moon and Mars as an interstellar statement about art’s limitless potential.

Justin Sun: Entrepreneur Behind $6 Million Banana Art

Comedian has become a cultural symbol, challenging traditional notions of value and artistic significance. Sun’s ownership adds a layer of intrigue, merging the worlds of crypto entrepreneurs and contemporary art. Whether eaten or launched into space, the $6 million banana continues to spark conversation, pushing the boundaries of what art—and ownership—can represent in the modern age.

Business

Snoop Dogg Launches “Lovechild” Jewelry Collection: A Celebration of Empowerment, Style, and Love

Published

1 month ago

November 14, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

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Snoop Dogg, the legendary rapper and cultural icon, has just launched his highly anticipated jewelry line, Lovechild, in collaboration with Metal Alchemist and music and media company gamma. This unique collection is designed not only to elevate personal style but to also inspire empowerment and well-being, making it much more than just a jewelry collection.

The Lovechild name was carefully chosen by Snoop himself, reflecting his desire to lead with love in a world filled with anger, negativity, and division. “I wanted to create something that represents positivity and empowerment—something that reminds people to lead with love,” Snoop Dogg explained. Through this collection, Snoop’s vision of spreading love as a transformative energy is brought to life in the form of luxurious, yet meaningful jewelry.

Snoop’s Lovechild jewelry collection includes carefully crafted pieces made with precision and quality, designed to resonate with individuals who believe in self-expression and personal growth. The collection exudes a sense of timeless style, making each piece not just a fashion statement but an emblem of the powerful energy Snoop wants to share with the world.

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The Lovechild collection will be available exclusively at Reeds 57 locations and online at reeds.com, offering fans and jewelry enthusiasts alike the chance to own a piece of Snoop.Love. The collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Metal Alchemist founder Carolyn Rafaelian is rooted in their shared belief in empowerment and transformation. Rafaelian, who has been at the forefront of creating innovative jewelry with a clean and powerful aesthetic, believes that this collection will be an unexpected hit, combining Snoop’s passion for love and positivity with Metal Alchemist’s commitment to using precious metals in groundbreaking ways.

“Snoop and I have always shared a foundational belief—to empower others and change the way things are done,” said Carolyn Rafaelian. “This partnership with gamma. takes that shared vision to new heights.” The Lovechild jewelry collection is not just about style; it’s about creating a movement of positivity, love, and transformation that resonates with anyone looking to make a difference in their own lives and in the world.

With the launch of Lovechild, Snoop Dogg has once again proven that his influence extends beyond music and entertainment. The collection promises to make a lasting impact, combining the worlds of fashion, empowerment, and iconic style into one unforgettable jewelry line. Snoop’s Lovechild collection is set to become a symbol of the power of love and the timeless appeal of style.

Business

Ashley Sankar’s Shark Tank Success: From Job Hustle to Thriving Side Business with NineteenTwenty

Published

1 month ago

November 13, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

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Ashley Sankar is redefining the meaning of hustle. Balancing a demanding job as a senior program manager at Amazon and a burgeoning side business, she exemplifies entrepreneurial determination. Her Phoenix-based startup, NineteenTwenty, recently caught national attention when she and her husband, Zach, landed a $250,000 deal on ABC’s Shark Tank.

The Birth of NineteenTwenty

NineteenTwenty isn’t just another clothing brand—it’s a game-changer. The company designs versatile apparel like puffer jackets and skirts that transform into practical items such as tote bags, pillows, or blankets. Launched in December 2022, the side business generated $269,000 in its first year, despite challenges like limited inventory.

“Our mission was to supplement our income,” Ashley shared. “But it grew faster than we imagined.”

Balancing a Job and Side Business

Ashley Sankar’s journey to Shark Tank success wasn’t without sacrifices. Working 10-12 hours daily at her job and dedicating another 6-8 hours to her side business, she pushed the limits of her time and energy. Her relentless efforts paid off when she and Zach pitched NineteenTwenty to the show’s investors.

The Shark Tank Moment

On Shark Tank, the Sankars asked for $250,000 in exchange for 10% equity. While facing tough questions about financials and industry competition, their passion and ingenuity shone through. Investor Robert Herjavec offered $250,000 for a 25% stake, a deal the couple gladly accepted.

“I’d rather have 72% of something than 100% of nothing,” Ashley said.

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A Success Story in the Making

For Ashley Sankar, balancing a job and a side business has been a journey of perseverance. NineteenTwenty’s success on Shark Tank not only validates her hard work but also marks the start of an exciting new chapter.

With her entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic, Ashley’s story is proof that with determination and innovation, even the busiest dreamers can turn their side hustle into a success.

Business

How Entrepreneurs Can Unlock Growth, Freedom, and a Balanced Lifestyle through the Right Community

Published

2 months ago

November 7, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

How Entrepreneurs Can Unlock Growth, Freedom, and a Balanced Lifestyle through the Right Community

In today’s rapidly evolving world, entrepreneurs are constantly on the hunt for new ways to scale their businesses, achieve personal growth, and enjoy true freedom. For many, the answer lies in joining a high-value, growth-oriented community that empowers them to reach their goals without compromising their lifestyle. In this post, we’ll dive into how the right entrepreneurial community can help you grow, achieve greater freedom, and create a more balanced life.

Why Entrepreneurs Need a Growth-Focused Community for Success

Entrepreneurship can be an isolating journey. Many entrepreneurs start with dreams of financial freedom and a fulfilling lifestyle but find themselves overwhelmed by the challenges of running a business. This is where an entrepreneurial community becomes invaluable. Being part of a group that shares your vision for growth can significantly accelerate your progress. Communities like Platinum ELEVATED, for example, offer an environment where ambitious entrepreneurs can connect, learn, and thrive together.

The Power of a Community: Grow Beyond Your Limits

When you surround yourself with like-minded entrepreneurs, you gain access to insights, strategies, and a support system that’s hard to find elsewhere. In a growth-oriented community, members share knowledge, resources, and real-world experiences that can help you avoid common pitfalls and take more direct paths to success.

Moreover, these communities are built around accountability, one of the most critical factors in maintaining focus and achieving consistent growth. With regular check-ins and peer support, entrepreneurs are more likely to stay committed to their goals and overcome challenges effectively.

Achieving Freedom in Both Life and Business

One of the biggest draws of entrepreneurship is the promise of freedom. However, many entrepreneurs struggle to achieve this due to constant demands on their time and energy. A supportive community can change that. By learning from others who have found ways to balance business success with personal fulfillment, you can develop strategies for achieving true freedom.

Joining a community like Platinum ELEVATED can be transformative. Their structured approach combines personal coaching, mentorship, and group sessions, all of which can help entrepreneurs not only grow their businesses but also reclaim their time, focus on family, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

Practical Tips for Finding the Right Community for Your Entrepreneurship Journey

Finding the right community for your entrepreneurship goals requires careful consideration. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed choice:

Look for a Community That Matches Your Values – Make sure the group aligns with your vision for both business growth and personal lifestyle goals.
Consider the Expertise Available – Communities led by experienced entrepreneurs, like Chad Willardson’s Platinum ELEVATED, offer a wealth of knowledge and insights that can fast-track your success.
Assess the Support Structure – Choose a community that offers ongoing support, accountability, and practical resources to help you achieve real growth.

How Entrepreneurs Can Unlock Growth, Freedom, and a Balanced Lifestyle through the Right Community

Unlocking Growth, Freedom, and Lifestyle Balance Through Entrepreneurship

In summary, joining a supportive, growth-oriented community can help entrepreneurs achieve their vision of success, freedom, and a balanced lifestyle. By tapping into the power of collective wisdom, practical support, and accountability, you can elevate your business and your personal life in ways that might not be possible on your own.

The journey to entrepreneurial success is never easy, but with the right community by your side, you can enjoy the growth, freedom, and lifestyle balance that every entrepreneur dreams of.

Business

The Rise of Wellness: A Trillion-Dollar Industry Transforms Health and Work Cultures

Published

2 months ago

November 6, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

In today’s world, the global wellness industry has reached an astonishing milestone, with a market valuation of $6.32 trillion in 2023. This expanding industry now outpaces pharmaceuticals and sports, highlighting a significant shift in consumer priorities toward holistic health. The wellness market growth covers various sectors, including personal care, beauty, weight loss, nutrition, and even wellness real estate, showcasing an increased focus on mental and physical well-being in daily life.

The Wellness Boom: A Post-Pandemic Priority

Following the pandemic, individuals have become more health-conscious, leading to a surge in demand across wellness sectors, especially in personal care and nutrition. This post-pandemic wellness trend underscores the heightened importance people place on preventive health and self-care, resulting in a robust rebound for the wellness industry after the temporary setbacks experienced during COVID-19. North America, known for its higher expenditure in wellness, remains at the forefront of wellness market spending, emphasizing regional differences in health-related investments.

Corporate Wellness: Investing in Employee Well-Being

The corporate wellness market is also expected to witness considerable expansion by 2032 as companies increasingly recognize the value of prioritizing employee health. Employers are investing in wellness initiatives—like mental health resources, fitness programs, and wellness retreats—to foster a happier, healthier workforce. This evolution in workplace culture signals a new era where corporate wellness programs are as essential as traditional benefits, underscoring the strong connection between well-being and productivity.

Hybrid Work and Remote Job Satisfaction

The rise of hybrid work productivity is another trend reshaping the wellness industry. Research shows that employees working in a hybrid model report similar productivity levels to in-office employees while experiencing higher job satisfaction. Many credit this satisfaction to the flexible balance between work and personal life that hybrid work enables. Reflecting the quirks of remote work, Kevin O’Leary recently commented on the “business on top, casual on the bottom” fashion trend during a television appearance, capturing the essence of remote work culture.

Tech Innovations: Smart Glasses and Health Monitoring

In the tech world, wellness trends are influencing the development of new devices. Following Meta’s success with its recent launches, Apple is now considering entering the smart glasses market. With wearable technology already playing a pivotal role in health tracking, Apple’s potential entry could further revolutionize how people engage with their well-being.

Surprising Shifts in Wealth and Health Culture

A recent analysis also uncovered that the wealthiest U.S. city is not in New York or California, reflecting new demographic trends in wealth and wellness priorities across regions. This unexpected shift further emphasizes how health and wellness are spreading beyond traditional high-income areas, with other regions leading in wellness-oriented lifestyles and investments.

Wellness

Wellness Industry Trends: The Future Outlook

The future of the wellness industry points to sustained growth across various areas, from corporate wellness to advanced personal care solutions. Companies are likely to increase their investment in wellness programs, creating a more supportive workplace culture focused on employee well-being. As health and wellness industry trends continue to evolve, the industry’s growth will likely see further expansion into wellness tourism, sustainable health products, and more personalized wellness solutions.

This remarkable rise of the global wellness industry exemplifies the shift in modern values, with a focus on health, fulfillment, and a balanced lifestyle. The wellness sector’s continued growth signals a bright future where personal well-being takes center stage in both our personal and professional lives.

Entrepreneurs

Nvidia Set to Replace Intel in the Dow Jones Industrial Average: A New Era in Semiconductors

Published

2 months ago

November 4, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

In a groundbreaking shift within the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nvidia is set to replace Intel, marking a significant transformation in the semiconductor industry. This transition reflects the soaring prominence of artificial intelligence (AI) and the evolving landscape of technology.

Nvidia’s Meteoric Rise

Nvidia has enjoyed a remarkable year, with its shares skyrocketing more than 170% in 2024, building on a staggering 240% increase the previous year. As a result, the company’s market capitalization has ballooned to $3.3 trillion, positioning it as the second-largest publicly traded company, just behind Apple. The rapid ascent is fueled by surging demand for Nvidia’s graphics processing units (GPUs), especially among tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, Google, and Amazon, which are purchasing Nvidia’s H100 GPUs in vast quantities to bolster their AI capabilities.

With revenue more than doubling over the past five quarters—tripling in three of those periods—Nvidia has become a focal point in the tech sector. The company recently indicated that demand for its next-generation AI GPU, known as Blackwell, is “insane,” further highlighting its pivotal role in the AI revolution.

Intel’s Decline

In stark contrast, Intel has faced a challenging year, with shares plummeting over 50% as the company struggles to maintain its once-unassailable market position in the face of mounting competition from Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and others. Long recognized as a leader in PC chip manufacturing, Intel has fallen behind in the AI race, failing to make substantial advancements in this burgeoning sector.

Recent filings from Intel revealed plans for significant restructuring, including a reduction of its workforce by 16,500 employees and a contraction of its real estate footprint. These measures, initially announced in August, underscore the company’s ongoing battle with manufacturing challenges and its struggle to regain competitiveness.

A Strategic Shift in the Dow Jones Industrial Average

The switch, set to take effect on November 8, is not only a pivotal moment for Nvidia and Intel but also highlights broader trends within the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which comprises 30 components weighted by the share price of individual stocks. With Nvidia’s entry, four of the six trillion-dollar tech companies—Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon—will now be represented in the index, with Alphabet and Meta remaining outside its ranks.

The decision to include Nvidia follows its strategic move earlier this year to execute a 10-for-1 stock split. While this maneuver did not affect its overall market capitalization, it effectively lowered the price of each share, facilitating the company’s inclusion in the Dow Jones Industrial Average without overly skewing the index.

This change is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first adjustment to the index since February, when Amazon replaced Walgreens Boots Alliance. Over the years, the Dow Jones Industrial Average has sought to enhance its representation of the largest and most influential technology companies, adapting to a rapidly evolving market landscape.

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As Nvidia replaces Intel in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, it signals a transformative moment in the semiconductor industry. The rise of AI has not only reshaped the fortunes of these two companies but also indicates a broader shift in the technological landscape, with Nvidia poised to lead the charge into the future. This transition not only reflects the dynamics of competition in the tech sector but also serves as a bellwether for the ongoing evolution of industries driven by innovation and technological advancement.

Business

How to Discover Winning Startup Ideas in 5 Simple Steps?

Published

2 months ago

October 29, 2024

Sahil Sachdeva

Finding a great startup idea can be challenging, especially since many entrepreneurs start with an idea that sounds exciting but lacks real impact. As Y Combinator co-founder Paul Graham warns, focusing solely on coming up with an idea often leads to plausible-sounding but ultimately weak concepts. Instead, a structured approach to uncovering viable opportunities is crucial.

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Here’s a 5-step guide to help you discover startup ideas that are worth your time and effort:

1. Spot and Solve Everyday Work Challenges

One of the most effective ways to uncover meaningful startup ideas is by identifying problems in your day-to-day work life. Small inefficiencies, recurring challenges, or time-consuming tasks often hide valuable opportunities. When you spot these inconveniences and seek to solve them, you’re likely to find ideas that have immediate relevance and clear value for potential users.

Start by making a habit of noting process inefficiencies or areas for improvement in your job or industry. Over time, you may spot patterns, revealing specific areas where your solution could grow into a viable business.

2. Dive Into Niche Markets for Unique Opportunities

Niche markets are often gold mines for startup ideas. These specialized markets, often overlooked by larger companies, are underserved, which means there’s space for innovative solutions. By focusing on a particular niche, you not only narrow down your audience but also tap into a community with specific challenges and needs.

For example, pet technology has emerged as a growing niche market, with products like GPS-enabled collars and health-tracking apps designed for pets. According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans spent over $100 billion on their pets last year, showcasing the revenue potential even within a smaller segment. Exploring niche markets can help you discover startup ideas with clear demand and less competition.

3. Leverage Emerging Trends to Uncover Ideas

Keeping an eye on trends, both technological and societal, gives you a glimpse of potential needs on the horizon. Following these trends allows you to anticipate shifts in demand and behavior, positioning you to address these needs early.

For example, the rise of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic drove demand for tools like Zoom, Slack, and Asana, which catered to distributed teams. Today, emerging trends like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and the gig economy are creating new opportunities. Analyze these trends to identify what people are likely to need in the future and shape your business around these insights.

4. Connect With Users Early On

Direct engagement with potential users is invaluable when identifying and validating startup ideas. Joining online communities, social media groups, or industry forums helps you understand real frustrations and challenges that users face, often revealing insights that typical market research might miss.

By actively listening and engaging with users, you can shape your idea to better align with their needs. This approach not only strengthens idea validation but also helps in building an early user base that’s invested in your project.

5. Quickly Test and Validate Your Ideas

Validation is crucial for any startup, and adopting a “fail fast” approach is the best way to ensure your idea has genuine potential. Rather than investing heavily in a full product, start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or prototype to test your concept with real users.

Dropbox famously did this by releasing a simple explainer video to gauge interest before fully developing the product. Using platforms like online surveys, landing pages, and basic prototypes can help you measure initial interest. If feedback is underwhelming, pivoting early allows you to adjust your idea to better fit the market.

Wrapping Up: A Clear Path to Startup Success

Uncovering a valuable startup idea is more than just a spark of inspiration. It involves a strategic approach where you tackle real problems, explore niche markets, stay updated on trends, connect with users, and validate ideas quickly. By following these steps, you increase your chances of finding an idea that has solid potential and a path to success.

For entrepreneurs ready to take on this journey, start by observing, testing, and refining your ideas with a structured approach that can lead to a winning startup.