Master the Art of Business
A world-class business education in a single volume. Learn the universal principles behind every successful business, then use these ideas to make more money, get more done, and have more fun in your life and work.
What Is 'The Crusader Rule'?
The Crusader Rule is a reminder to evaluate new business ideas before you proceed. There's huge difference between an interesting idea and a solid business. Remember: you have to be able to pay the bills!
It's crucial to be objective and analyze the idea before committing to it. This is where the 10 Ways to Evaluate the Market can help you.
Josh Kaufman Explains 'The Crusader Rule'
Being a Crusader doesn’t pay either. Every once in a while, you’ll find an idea so fascinating it becomes hard to think about it objectively. The stars align, heavenly trumpets blare, and suddenly you have the unmistakable impression that you’ve found your calling.
In all the excitement, it’s easy to forget that there’s often a huge difference between an interesting idea and a solid business. In your optimism, forget ye not prudence: changing the world is difficult if you can’t pay the bills.
Some ideas don’t have enough of a market behind them to support a business, and that’s perfectly okay. That doesn’t mean you should ignore them: side projects can help you expand your knowledge, improve your skills, and experiment with new methods and techniques.
I’m a huge advocate of pursuing side projects as long as you don’t count on them to reliably produce income. Once you have your financial bases covered, crusade all you want.
Before attempting to launch a business, take the time to do a thorough evaluation using the 10 Ways to Evaluate a Market.
If you’re finding it difficult to be objective, find a trusted colleague or adviser to help you, then test it as quickly and as inexpensively as you can before you fully commit.
A few hours spent in evaluation can prevent months (or years) of frustration and misplaced effort.
Questions About 'The Crusader Rule'
- Is your idea really a viable business, or would it make a better side project?
- Are you prone to getting excited about a new idea without evaluating how attractive it really is?
"The zealous display the strength of their belief, while the judicious show the grounds of it."
William Shenstone, eighteenth-century poet and landscape designer
Value Creation
https://personalmba.com/crusader-rule/
Master the Art of Business
A world-class business education in a single volume. Learn the universal principles behind every successful business, then use these ideas to make more money, get more done, and have more fun in your life and work.
About Josh Kaufman
Josh Kaufman is an acclaimed business, learning, and skill acquisition expert. He is the author of two international bestsellers: The Personal MBA and The First 20 Hours. Josh's research and writing have helped millions of people worldwide learn the fundamentals of modern business.
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