Start-Up Nation

I recently finished reading “Start-Up Nation” by Dan Senor and Saul Singer. The book is written about Israel’s incredible economic growth and how it has survived and thrived despite the many seemingly obstacles such as size, lack of natural resources, and surrounding enemies. The book shares true examples of some of Israel’s top entrepreneurs and businesses to make certain points on why and how Israel has succeeded. Through these stories we learn some of the strategies, ideas, and concepts used to help spark Israel’s economy—things that I believe can be applied in our individual lives to help us reach our own success. Below are three of my favorites from the book.

#1 Chutzpah

“The most careful thing is to dare.”

Chutzpah is defined as gall or incredible guts and each Israeli seems to possess it. Rather than take it easy, be conservative, or hold back because of fear or comfort, Israelis seem to go for it every time. Their ability to embrace intelligent risk-taking has rocketed their economy to great heights. When they have a business idea, they do not hesitate, they start a business. This seeming ability to take risks no matter the circumstance or potential cost has helped Israel compete with some of the top nations in the world. In a similar manner, if we can have the same confidence and “chutzpah” that Israel has shown, our ability to find success will grow immensely!

#2 Philosophy on Failure

“Mistakes are acceptable, provided they are used as opportunities to improve individual and group performance.”

A powerful force behind Israel’s success is their acceptance and lack of fear of failure. Most of us refrain doing certain things because we are afraid to fail but in Israel, failure is not only accepted but often admired. Israel uses failure as a way to learn and they dissect failures thoroughly enabling themselves to maximize their learning while ensuring they do not make the same mistake(s). This powerful attitude and study of failure leads to more start-up companies and entrepreneurs than most every other country in the world! It seems in Israel that failing is simply part of practicing business until you eventually succeed. Developing a similar perspective on failure will greatly increase our own ability to reach our full potential.

#3 Results Oriented

“Be much more about being performance-oriented than about seniority or ranks.”

Unique to Israel is their seemingly lack of respect or credence for superiors. This lack of respect, in the worlds view, is a powerful force in its ability to challenge, improve, and succeed. In fact, in Israel, regardless of rank, tenure, power, or position, it seems everyone is on the same level playing field. An employee freely challenges his boss, a student his professor, a sergeant her general, etc. And this type of behavior is not only accepted but expected. As people, in order for us to be our best, we must be challenged and put to the test day in and day out by anyone and everyone. This also creates constant competition where it is not uncommon for one person’s boss today, to be his employee tomorrow because in Israel you are judged on results. Israel is a great example of what can happen in a society where your latest results are rewarded regardless of tenure, stature, or past performance. Creating a similar environment in our own lives would push us to be our best every single day.

There are many other reasons and examples of what has contributed to Israel’s economic success in “Start Up Nation” but these are three of my favorites. I believe if we can apply these as well as some of the other concepts found in this book in our personal lives, our success much like Israel’s economy, will soar to great heights!

To see how I ranked this book click here.