Built to Last

When I first read Good to Great by Jim Collins, I instantly had the desire to read his first book called Built to Last and after many years, I finally did! And although I believe Good to Great in its entirety is a better book, some concepts in Built to Last are extremely valuable for all businesses and for all individuals as well. These principles when applied will help us achieve enduring success in life. Below are the top 4 ideas and concepts found in the book that I believe can help us reach success.

#1 The Power of the ‘AND’

The power of the ‘AND’ comes from the idea that we can be two contrasting things at the same time. For example, I can be extremely disciplined and extremely flexible at the same time or I can be level headed and a fanatical at the same time. Too often many of us settle for the ‘OR’. We believe that we have to choose between this ‘OR’ that, or that we have to find a balance between two contrasting extremes somehow. We fail to realize or believe or strive to have or be both. Companies and individuals who embrace the power of the ‘AND’ realize that being good at two different extremes is not only attainable but often necessary for long-term success. Different situations call for different abilities and as we embrace the power of the ‘AND’ and dismiss the fallaciousness of the ‘OR’ we will find success.

#2 The Power of the Core

So in exercise programs these days it seems the idea of focusing on strengthening the “core” is very popular. Likewise, the authors of Built to Last emphasize over and over again the importance of strengthening and preserving the core of a company. In the book, the core refers to who we are, why we exist, what we live for, our vision, values, and what we hope to become. In business, and I believe in life, we must protect this core at all costs. Sure practices, strategies, methods, programs, rules, policies etc. may change (and often need to) but the core can never change because the core is who we are and gives us meaning. When businesses or people try to change the core or ignore the core, or forget to strengthen and protect the core, they fail. Thus, we must always remain true to our core which includes our values and ultimate vision in life. Because without the core, our purpose for existing becomes nearly obsolete. This simple concept is the most central theme and probably the most powerful idea found in the book.

#3 Go Back to the Basics

The authors of the book believe there are basic, fundamental principles that must be applied at all times to be successful and I agree with them. Simple things such as the value of honesty, hard-work, persistence, and discipline never go away. These fundamental concepts have with stood the test of time and always produce success when practiced consistently. So, when we find ourselves looking too deep for a secret formula or an easy solution to our problems, we often must simply remember the basics that always lead to success.

#4 Get Out of the Comfort Zone

Finally, the book inspires us to get out of our comfort zone. Too often we settle for comfort over greatness and many times without realizing it. Staying in the comfort zone is dangerous because it does little to stimulate our progress whether for a business or an individual. In fact, great companies establish systems to eliminate complacency and create discomfort. I believe if we do the same in our personal lives—meaning we seek ways to create discomfort and force ourselves to stretch and grow—we will obtain higher levels of satisfaction and success. Thus, we must avoid getting too comfortable because when we do, our ability to progress is significantly reduced.

Believing in the power of the ‘AND’ and the core, focusing on the basics, and getting out of our comfort zone are all meaningful principles found in Built to Last that I believe will help us achieve greater success in life. As we apply these ideas, we will grow and progress and more fully reach our potential as leaders and as individuals.

To see how I rated this book click here.