Less mass is better

The bigger the object, the harder it is to move. But less mass objects give you better flexibility. You can change directions quickly, place it here and there, and see if it’s a fit. But once the object gets bigger, you give up the power of flexibility. You can’t change directions as quickly as you used to.

You know I’m going for a metaphor here. Bigger mass goes for:

  • Long-term business contracts
  • Over hiring employees
  • Lock-ins for software & hardware products
  • Long-term business plans
  • Bigger management
  • Working on a single project for a year
  • Renting bigger office

If you want your business to create, try to create an environment with less mass. People that can make a decision quickly. That way you can change your product, business model, marketing message — even your mind — the fastest way possible.

Big companies don’t have as much flexibility as the small ones. That’s why they are big — they can’t change directions as much as they want to. But when you are small, you can experiment, learn, create, and enter the market easily. Basically, change anything until you find out what works for you.

Have less mass to try and experiment more until you find out what you are looking for. Bigger companies don't have this power. Everything goes through board members and management. Basically, it requires approval for everything you do. But if you are small, you can change your business however you like until it becomes a hit.