The Seventh Imperative
Ship It
The Seventh Imperative is about having the guts and heart to ship, to take initiative and start something new. It's about being aware of the market, educated, connected, consistent, and productive, but also having the spark of initiative to make things happen. The book argues that the world is changing too fast, and without initiative, we're stuck reacting to the world instead of shaping it.
- Initiative is the spark that brings projects to life
- The world is changing too fast, and without initiative, we're stuck reacting
- The seventh imperative is about having the guts and heart to ship
- Be AwareBe aware of the market, opportunities, and who you are. Understand the changing world and the need for initiative.Pro tipStay curious and keep learningWarningComplacency can lead to stagnation
- Take InitiativeTake the first step, start something new, and be willing to fail. Don't wait for instructions or guidance, take ownership and start.Pro tipStart small and build momentumWarningFear of failure can hold you back
- Ship ItHave the guts and heart to ship, to take initiative and make things happen. Don't wait for perfection, ship it and improve as you go.Pro tipFocus on progress, not perfectionWarningAnalysis paralysis can lead to inaction
Annie Downs, a nonprofit worker, took initiative and started a new project, changing her life and organization.
Craig Venter, a scientist, used a computer to design the genetic code of an organism, but needed to insert organic tissue to bring it to life.
The concept of the Seventh Imperative was developed by Seth Godin as a response to the changing world and the need for individuals and organizations to take initiative and innovate. The idea is that the traditional six imperatives (being aware, educated, connected, consistent, and productive) are not enough, and that the seventh imperative, to have the guts and heart to ship, is what sets successful individuals and organizations apart.