1. Realize That “Great Ideas” Aren’t Everything

The Winklevoss twins sued Zuckerberg for stealing their idea for a social network. But let’s be honest: the idea wasn’t that novel. It was Zuckerberg’s execution that made the difference. It was the little tweaks and hacks the pushed Facebook ahead of competitors.

As Zuckerberg later explained in a letter to investors,

“Hackers believe that something can always be better, and that nothing is ever complete. They just have to go fix it—often in the face of people who say it’s impossible or are content with the status quo.”

The best way to achieve long-term success is to look for ways to continually improve. You don’t have to get everything perfect at first. Instead, keep iterating and failing fast so you can succeed sooner.

Work For A Cause, Not Just Applause


Facebook has changed the way we interact with each other, which was Zuckerberg’s goal from the start. “My goal was never to just create a company,”

Zuckerberg has said.

“Ultimately what not being just a company means to me, is…building something that actually makes a really big change in the world.”

When you aim for social impact, you’re far more likely to reach a wide audience. Embrace a larger vision for your company. Changing the way people do things will be more memorable than a “me-too” product.

Don’t Tie Yourself To Your Business Plan

No business plan has ever been followed step-by-step. As Zuckerberg said: “You have to be weary of working at a company and getting locked in.” In other words, you need to be flexible with your entrepreneurial pursuits.

Don’t get so locked in to one idea that you miss out on better opportunities. Facebook began as a hobby. If it hadn’t worked out, Zuckerberg would have been able to easily move on to something else.

Entrepreneurs should avoid getting too attached to a particular job or product. You never know how market changes could affect your business. Keep an open mind so you can be better equipped to handle the ups and downs of startup life.

Prioritize People Ahead Of Profits


Zuckerberg once said: “I will only hire someone to work directly for me if I would work for that person.” His unique approach has led him to hire employees that have different strengths.

It goes to show that even the most talented people can’t do it alone. Marketing strategist and entrepreneur Brian Cliette says he follows Zuckerberg’s mindset when it comes to hiring.

“The right hire can make up for your individual weaknesses,”

he explains.

“This allows you to take your startup to the next level, without wasting time. Above all else, shared vision and complementary skill sets are essential for success.”

Help Others Find Purpose

When others buy into your vision, you’ll get better results. When people feel like they’re part of something bigger, they’ll work harder.

As Zuckerberg said, “One of my favorite stories is when John F. Kennedy visited the NASA space center, he saw a janitor carrying a broom and he walked over and asked what he was doing.

The janitor responded: ‘Mr. President, I’m helping put a man on the moon’.” Surround yourself with people who buy into your vision. It’ll make them more enthusiastic about their role no matter how mundane it may seem.

Forget The Haters And Follow Your Vision

Even as it has grown into one of the world’s biggest brands, Facebook’s mission hasn’t changed much: “to make the world more open and connected.” Remaining true to your vision will allow you to achieve long-term success.

Jay Peters, director of PARK USA, says that Zuckerberg’s laser focus enabled Facebook to thrive in a world where MySpace and Friendster already existed.

“Everything from design and brand language to company culture should be developed in consistency with the overall company and business vision,”

he explained.

“This is one of the best and most critical ways to build a strong brand and value proposition for your customers.”

Don’t Be Afraid To Take Time Off

Entrepreneurs sometimes think they need to work non-stop to achieve any success. But Zuckerberg himself has proved this doesn’t have to be the case. Facebook provides four months of paid paternity leave to new parents.

Zuckerberg himself used this policy after his daughters were born, saying: “I’m pretty sure the office will still be standing when I get back.” Your business will survive without you. Take time off to recharge when necessary, and you’ll avoid getting burned out.

By using Mark Zuckerberg’s keys to success, you’ll be able to achieve greater results than before. You may not start the next Facebook, but you will be able to grow your business and make a lasting impact.

Good luck guys�