The best way to see if your idea would be successful in the market? Ask if it solves a frustration for potential clients. And it’s even better when the frustration comes from within. It’s something you have gone through. Something that really pisses you off a lot.

When something really pisses you off—write it down. Include the really detailed things. Some seemingly trivial things, like wanting something fun somewhere, a solid bar to meet up with people on a plane. It can be anything. If it’s a great idea and it hasn’t been made, write it on the list.

You will end up with a long list of detailed things that you and everyone else have picked up on but no one has done anything about.

The best way to start a business is to be disruptive. Think about how you can do something differently. Think about a way something has been done for centuries and say, “Fuck that, let’s do it this way from now on,” and then start doing it. In hindsight, the disruptions always seem so obvious.

And you know the biggest disruptions don’t even need the latest tech or anything fancy; they just need to take pieces and integrate them to make them work. As a disruptor, your most valuable skill is to be a learner.

When you approach a problem with the mindset of learning, you open yourself up to new perspectives and solutions. You become adaptable and resilient. In today’s fast-paced world, this is crucial. The ability to learn quickly and efficiently can be the difference between success and failure.

Look at the most successful disruptors in history. They didn’t necessarily invent something new; they saw a way to improve upon what already existed. They took frustrations and inefficiencies and turned them into opportunities. Think about companies like Uber or Airbnb. They didn’t create taxis or hotels; they created better ways to access these services, addressing common frustrations and making the experience more convenient for users.

Embrace the power of iteration. Your first idea doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, it probably won’t be. But that’s okay. Start with a minimum viable product (MVP), something that addresses the core frustration in a simple way. Then, gather feedback, learn from it, and improve. This iterative process will help you refine your idea and ensure it meets the needs of your market.

Networking is another crucial element. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, who can provide different viewpoints and expertise. Collaboration often leads to innovation. Don’t be afraid to share your ideas and get input from others. The more perspectives you have, the better you can understand and solve the frustrations you’re addressing.

Moreover, persistence is key. Disrupting an industry is rarely easy. There will be setbacks and obstacles. But if you remain committed to solving the frustrations you’ve identified, you’ll find a way through. Remember, the path to success is often nonlinear. Stay focused on your goal, but be flexible in your approach.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of storytelling. How you communicate your idea can be just as important as the idea itself. Craft a compelling narrative around the frustration you’re addressing and the solution you’re providing. Make it relatable. People are more likely to support something they connect with on an emotional level.

In conclusion, start with frustration. Identify the things that really piss you off and write them down. Use those frustrations as a springboard for innovation. Be disruptive, be a learner, and iterate on your ideas. Surround yourself with a supportive network, persist through challenges, and tell a compelling story. By doing so, you’ll not only create a successful business but also make a meaningful impact.