Your Next Big Thing

About the Author

Matthew Mockridge, a dynamic entrepreneur and speaker, has carved out a niche in the world of business innovation. Born in Germany, Mockridge pursued his studies in international business and management in Miami, FL, USA. He returned to his home country to co-found and later sell a pioneering platform known as "the Facebook of live entertainment." This platform revolutionized the live entertainment industry by connecting fans with real-time events and experiences. Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Mockridge is a sought-after keynote speaker, often recognized for his engaging presentations delivered in casual attire, including a cap and sneakers. His work with major corporations such as PHILIPS, RE/MAX, Lufthansa, MERCK, and SHELL underscores his influence and expertise in fostering creativity and innovation. His book, Your Next Big Thing: Creating Successful Business Ideas from Scratch, encapsulates his philosophy and strategies for generating and nurturing groundbreaking business ideas.

Main Idea

At the heart of Mockridge's book is the notion that anyone can cultivate the ability to generate "next big things"—ideas that can transform industries and lives. He demystifies the concept of creativity, arguing that it is not an innate trait limited to a select few but a skill that can be developed. The book serves as a comprehensive guide, offering readers a blueprint for identifying, evaluating, and actualizing innovative ideas. Mockridge emphasizes the importance of understanding the essential attributes of a successful idea, the tools for idea generation, and the methods for evaluating these ideas to ensure they are worth pursuing. His approach is grounded in practical advice, encouraging readers to embrace creativity as a process that involves both inspiration and disciplined effort.

Table of Contents

1. Attributes of a "Next Big Thing"
2. Thoughts on Creativity
3. Idea-Finding Tools
4. Idea Evaluation Tools
5. Success Thoughts
6. A Leader T-O-D-A-Y

Attributes of a "Next Big Thing"

In the initial chapters, Mockridge defines the essential attributes that constitute a "next big thing." According to him, such an idea must possess meaning and value, addressing a significant need or problem in the market. This involves creating something that becomes an integral part of the founder's life and the lives of the target audience. The idea must also be anchored in fairness, adhering to ethical principles and ensuring legality, honesty, and respect for all stakeholders involved. Furthermore, Mockridge stresses the importance of problem-solving capabilities, where the idea tackles substantial issues that offer substantial market potential.

An essential aspect Mockridge highlights is scalability. He emphasizes that a truly groundbreaking idea should be capable of growth and sustainability, even in the absence of the founder. This ensures that the business can expand and thrive without being overly dependent on a single individual. Additionally, the concept of optimized risk is crucial; the potential rewards of the idea should significantly outweigh the risks, providing a clear path for profitability while minimizing financial exposure. Mockridge encapsulates these attributes as the foundational elements that differentiate ordinary ideas from those that can change the world.

"A real 'next big thing' includes all or some of the following features: Meaning and Value, Fairness, Problem-Solving, Scalability, Optimized Risk." - Matthew Mockridge

Thoughts on Creativity

Mockridge challenges conventional notions of creativity, suggesting that it is not merely about inventing something entirely new. Instead, he views creativity as a process of discovery and improvement. He posits that creativity is not a rare gift but a skill that can be nurtured through exposure to diverse experiences and environments. According to Mockridge, ideas are not generated in isolation; they are the result of a person's cumulative experiences and exposure to different stimuli. He encourages readers to seek out new and challenging experiences, as these can often trigger innovative thoughts and ideas.