Great by Choice
Chapter 1: Thriving in Uncertainty
The 10xers: Individuals who outperformed their industry peers by ten times or more.
10x companies didn't just have luck on their side; they were able to navigate through uncertain times.
The importance of fanatical discipline and empirical creativity in turbulent environments.
Productive paranoia: Always being prepared for the worst while remaining optimistic.
20 Mile March: Setting consistent performance markers to ensure progress in good and bad times.
The role of SMaC recipes (Specific, Methodical, and Consistent) in successful execution.
Firing bullets, then cannonballs: Gradual testing and validation before committing fully to an idea.
The need for Level 5 leadership: Humility, determination, and a focus on organisational success.
Chapter 2: 10Xers
The myth of successful leaders as risk-takers; 10xers are actually calculated risk-takers.
The importance of fanatical discipline, empirical creativity, and productive paranoia for 10x success.
Clock building vs. time telling: Building a strong organisation that outlasts the individual leader.
Zoom out, then zoom in: Being able to balance the long-term vision with short-term goals.
The role of luck in success, and how 10xers turn luck into an opportunity.
The three core behaviours of 10xers: Fanatic discipline, empirical creativity, and productive paranoia.
10xers were not necessarily more innovative but focused on the right innovations.
Chapter 3: 20 Mile March
The concept of the 20 Mile March: Setting consistent performance markers in any circumstance.
Avoiding the traps of overreaching in good times and underperforming in bad times.
The importance of self-imposed constraints and long-term thinking.
The role of consistent progress in building momentum and confidence.
Chapter 4: Fire Bullets, Then Cannonballs
The concept of firing bullets, then cannonballs: Gradual testing and validation before scaling up.
The benefits of empirical validation and adjusting course based on real-time feedback.
The need to balance innovation and discipline in the pursuit of success.
Building an "empirical foundation" to minimise risks and maximise the chances of success.
Chapter 5: Leading Above the Death Line
Level 5 leaders combine personal humility with intense professional will.
The need for leaders who prioritise the long-term success of the organisation.
The difference between "Luck" and "Return on Luck."
The role of luck in success and how 10xers capitalise on unexpected events.
The importance of discipline and strategic decision-making during uncertain times.
Chapter 6: SMaC
SMaC recipes provide clear guidelines for decision-making and actions.
The importance of discipline in following the SMaC recipes.
SMaC recipes are not meant to stifle creativity but to provide a framework for success.
Chapter 7: Return on Luck
How 10xers view and respond to luck differently from their peers.
The concept of "Return on Luck": Turning unexpected events into favourable outcomes.
Building buffers and preparedness to withstand unexpected disruptions.
The importance of disciplined action in capitalising on lucky events.
The role of productive paranoia in being prepared for both good and bad luck.