Are you tired of traditional business advice that’s all about chasing funding, scaling fast, and maximizing profit? Then Anything You Want by Derek Sivers is your antidote.
This short yet powerful book captures 10 years of business wisdom in a refreshing and honest voice. Sivers, founder of CD Baby, built a multimillion-dollar company by doing the exact opposite of what many business gurus preach.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or dreamer, here are 10 key takeaways that will change how you think about business and success.
🔑 1. Business is About Making Dreams Come True
“Business is not about money. It’s about making dreams come true for others and for yourself.”
Your business should solve real problems or fulfill real desires. If your motivation is purely profit, you’ll likely lose your way. Instead, focus on creating value and meaning.
🔑 2. Start Small and Keep It Simple
“Start now. No funding needed.”
You don’t need investors, a perfect website, or a viral marketing campaign to start. Just solve one person’s problem today. If you keep solving real problems, your business will naturally grow.
🔑 3. Ideas Are Worth Nothing Without Execution
“Ideas are just a multiplier of execution.”
A brilliant idea with poor execution is worth little. A simple idea with excellent execution is a million-dollar business. Take action and improve as you go.
🔑 4. Say ‘HELL YEAH!’ or Say No
“If you’re not saying ‘HELL YEAH!’ about something, say no.”
Stop filling your schedule with maybes. This rule helps you focus your time and energy only on things you’re truly excited about. It leads to more fulfillment and better results.
🔑 5. Don’t Make Plans, Make Progress
“No plan survives first contact with customers.”
Your business model will evolve. Sivers shifted from a credit card processor to a full-fledged music store because he listened to his users. Stay flexible and let customer feedback guide your path.
🔑 6. Proudly Exclude People
“You can’t please everyone, so proudly exclude people.”
Trying to appeal to everyone waters down your message. Focus on serving a niche audience exceptionally well, and they’ll love you for it.
🔑 7. Don’t Do Anything Just for the Money
“Never forget why you’re really doing what you’re doing.”
Make decisions based on your values, not short-term gain. Money should be the byproduct of doing meaningful work—not the end goal.
🔑 8. Make Yourself Unnecessary
“Make yourself unnecessary to the running of your business.”
If your business can’t run without you, you don’t have a business—you have a job. Build systems and delegate so your company can thrive without you being there every day.
🔑 9. Little Things Make a Big Difference
“If you find even the smallest way to make people smile, they’ll remember you more.”
One goofy shipping confirmation email made CD Baby legendary. It’s the small, thoughtful touches that build customer loyalty and word-of-mouth.
🔑 10. Care About Your Customers More Than Yourself
“Your company should be willing to die for your customers.”
Focus on delivering real value, even if it means letting go of your ego or short-term wins. That’s how you build trust—and a business that lasts.
💡 Final Thoughts
Derek Sivers’ Anything You Want isn’t your average business book. It’s a refreshing reminder that authenticity, simplicity, and service are more important than hype and hustle.
Whether you’re launching a startup, building a personal brand, or simply looking to do more meaningful work—these lessons will help you find clarity and direction.
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