Kill the Original Plan

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Most startups begin with a grand vision—an idea that seems destined to change the world. But what happens when the market shifts, technology evolves, or customers just don’t bite? Smart entrepreneurs know when to kill the original plan and adapt to something better.

History is full of game-changing companies that started one way but ended up dominating an entirely different space. The lesson? Flexibility beats stubbornness.

Big Wins That Came from Killing the Original Plan

1. Amazon – Started as an online bookstore. Now it’s a global e-commerce, cloud computing, and AI powerhouse.

2. YouTube – Originally a dating video site. Pivoted to a user-generated video platform and became a media giant.

3. Netflix – Began as a DVD rental-by-mail service. Shifted to streaming and later original content, transforming entertainment.

4. Instagram – First launched as a location-based app called Burbn. Simplified into a photo-sharing app and took off.

5. Slack – Originally a gaming company. Their internal messaging tool became the real business.

6. Twitter – Started as a podcasting platform called Odeo. Shifted to microblogging and changed social media.

7. Shopify – Built as an online store for snowboards. Realized the e-commerce platform was the real goldmine.

Each of these companies could have stuck to their original plan and failed. Instead, they listened, adapted, and won.

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If you’re thinking about shifting your business strategy, here’s how to do it wisely:

1. Follow the Market, Not Your Ego

Your original idea may be brilliant, but if the market isn’t responding, your opinion doesn’t matter—customers do.

2. Look for Unexpected Traction

Is a feature, product, or use case gaining more attention than expected? Double down on what’s working, even if it wasn’t the original plan.

3. Listen to Customer Behavior, Not Just Feedback

People don’t always know what they want—but their actions tell the truth. Watch usage data, not just survey answers.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Cannibalize Your Own Idea

Sometimes, your old business model needs to die for a better one to emerge. Netflix killed DVD rentals. Apple killed the iPod with the iPhone.

5. Find the Big Problem You’re Actually Solving

You might think you’re selling a product, but you’re solving a problem. Slack wasn’t about gaming—it was about communication.

6. Move Fast, But Validate First

Test new directions before going all in. A failed pivot can be worse than sticking to a bad plan.

7. Communicate the Change Clearly

Your team, investors, and customers need to understand why you’re shifting. A strong narrative makes the pivot smoother.