Erick Widman

Peter Thiel founded: • PayPal • Palantir • Founders Fund & was the first outside money in Facebook. Here are 7 of his best ideas: 1. Zero to One In a world where many iterate, Thiel emphasizes originality. Moving from nothing to something, from 0 to 1, creates unique value. Are you or truly innovating, or merely improving? The pioneers get the most. The imitators share the scraps. 2. Contrarian Thinking Yep, Peter Thiel's also a contrarian. He believes in going against the grain — questioning prevailing notions. He likes to ask: Where might the majority be overlooking or misjudging? Hidden paths often lead to untapped treasures. 3. Definite Optimism Don't just hope for a better future — plan for it. Most hope & dream, then wonder why they don't get anywhere. You need a plan – a blueprint: • Have a clear vision for your future. • Reverse-engineer how you'll get there. • Execute. Simple, not easy. 4. Competition is for Losers Being the best in a crowded market? Meh. Dominating a niche you've carved? Gold. Monopolies aren't about crushing competition. It's about being so unique, competition becomes irrelevant. Stop comparing. Start creating. 5. Power Law Dynamics In the startup world, a few companies outperform all others. And in venture, these investments generate the lion's share in returns. • Do your research • Find outliers • Make sure you're part of them Go deep, not wide. 6. The Importance of Secrets Thiel believes every great business is built around secrets – a truth few people see or acknowledge. Ask yourself: What important truths do very few agree with me on? Find these and double down on them. This is where outsized returns lie. 7. Skepticism about Formal Education Thiel questions the value of higher education. He even has a Thiel fellowship where he gives $100,000 to young visionaries who want to build rather than sit in a classroom. Challenge norms. Find your own path to wisdom. Thanks for reading. If you liked this, follow me @Codie_Sanchez for more on business & contrarianism.