The Power of Focus: Building Products and Communities

The Power of Focus: Building Products and Communities

In the world of product management and community-building, one common theme emerges: the importance of focus. Those who find success in these realms are the ones who stick with one idea for an unreasonable period of time. This principle applies to product managers, founders, and venture capitalists alike. Building great products and cultivating thriving communities requires unwavering conviction and laser-like focus.

When it comes to building products, spreading yourself too thin can be detrimental. A product manager who acts like a used car salesman, pitching and selling multiple products, is unlikely to create something truly exceptional. Instead, successful product managers focus on one idea, investing their time, energy, and resources into its development. By honing in on a single concept, they can better understand the nuances, identify potential challenges, and craft a remarkable solution.

Similarly, founders are often urged to dedicate themselves to a single idea for an extended period. This commitment is what attracts venture capitalists, who seek founders with unwavering conviction and focus. By staying dedicated to a single idea, founders demonstrate their belief in its potential and their commitment to realizing its success. This kind of focus is what sets apart successful entrepreneurs from the rest.

The concept of focus also extends to building communities. To create a thriving community, it is crucial to understand the concept of Community-Member-Fit (CMF). CMF is the point at which members consistently provide meaningful value to each other without being asked. Successful communities start by focusing on actions at the top of the commitment curve and attracting the most dedicated believers.

To find CMF, it is essential to identify individuals who are already highly committed to the community's purpose. These individuals are already trying, albeit unsuccessfully, to achieve what the community offers. By convincing them to join forces and leverage their collective motivation, a foundation for a successful community can be established. It is not necessary to have a massive following from the start; all you need are a few true believers to set the stage for growth.

When starting a new community, it is crucial to focus on finding CMF for a small group of believers. Instead of targeting established community leaders or successful event organizers, look for those who have the motivation but have not yet achieved their goals. They are the ones who need your help the most and are more likely to embrace your community's vision. By supporting and empowering these individuals, you can create a strong foundation for growth and attract more like-minded individuals to join.