Why ideas matter more than ever

This might upset some people, but hear me out.

People who say “ideas are worthless” don’t understand 2024 and the world we live in.

In a world where AI makes turning ideas into software businesses borderline effortless, execution isn’t the bottleneck anymore. It’s the idea itself.

Everyone has access to tools and platforms that streamline the building of products process.

In 2024, execution is worthless. Ideas are everything.

Here's how I define "ideas"

1. Distribution ideas. The right distribution channel can turn an obscure product into a money printer overnight. There are infinite channels on the internet which allows for many products to win a market and not just one. Remember, the best product doesn't always win, the best distribution often does. Is Logan's Paul/KSI's Prime drink a better product than some brand you've never heard of? Probably not. They just cracked the distribution ideas.

2. Niche ideas. I mine social platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Reddit and use tools like GummySearch to uncover hyper-specific niches that were invisible before. These niche aren’t just smaller segments of the market; they are untapped reservoirs of demand. By identifying and catering to these niches, you can dominate a market that others don’t even see (especially the venture-backed statups or large platforms that can't be bothers for "small markets"). Finding the right niche idea becomes critical. Find a $10M+/year business, pick off a smaller niche and get to building.

3. Startup ideas. AI doesn’t just automate tasks, it redefines what’s possible. Imagine startups that can offer services so personalized, they feel bespoke. This level of customization was unthinkable a few years ago. Now, it’s the new baseline. I talked about an AI app generating $190k/month with shared infrastructure that used this strategy on my pod (YouTube/Spotify/Apple).

4. Creative ideas. Creativity isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about connection. A well-crafted story, a unique perspective, or a striking visual can turn a passive observer into an active participant. The right creative idea doesn’t just attract attention; it compels action. It turns engagement into evangelism. I use DesignScientist.com to create beautiful creative and turn my ideas to reality.

Good ideas often seem obvious in hindsight, but they are the culmination of years of compounded thoughts and experiences. Some ideas burst forth like a sudden lightbulb moment, while others grow slowly, requiring the right conditions to blossom. We sometimes stumble upon them, and other times we pursue them with deliberate intent.

I'm more interested in how you get into the creative zone to come up with ideas that outperform. No fun in waiting for lightbulbs moments. They might never happen.

A few tips for you:

1. Find a fast growing startup and use their distribution strategy in an unknown space. Look at something like Athletic Greens. They are everywhere. They scaled by using tech/health influencers to talk about them on podcasters. Ask yourself: what other products are ripe for this?

2. Have a list of data tools that you can use to find niche ideas like EtsyHunt, GummySearch, PublisherRocket etc.

3. For creative ideas, I use Pinterest and bookmarks on X with a folder called inspo. Curate your feed with visual inspo that'll give you an unfair advantage.

4. Keep a note file on your phone called ideas. Have sections for distribution ideas, niche ideas, startup ideas, creative days. This is your "swipe file" for ideas. Whenever you see something cool, write it down.