Like much entertainment, music often reflects the realities of life and business.
This week, we check in with Mark Oldman, entrepreneur, Inc. contributor, and author. He finds many parallels between the lyrics of Neil Peart’s Rush band and the company he co-founded, Vault.com.
As many of you know, Peart died last month. Oldman has been a loyal follower of Neil Peart and Rush for many years. His recent article is a tribute to the ideas reflected in Rush’s songs. It also catalogs many of the lessons he’s learned in business. You’ll find parallels to Ami Kassar’s experience, which we discussed here.
What makes a song popular? It’s usually its reflection of realities in life and/or business.
The lessons Mark relates to Rush’s lyrics are:
1. “Resist safety”.
2. Pursue your passion.
3. Choose complementary co-founders.
4. Progress is incremental.
5. Say no.
6. Prepare to pivot.
7. Assume control.
Oldman selects a passage from one of Rush’s songs to illustrate each principle. Common themes for them are:
- Control your destiny.
- Find what excites you – and focus on it.
- Pay attention to what the market is telling you, and be prepared to react. The best reaction may be saying no to an apparent opportunity (shiny object).
Enjoy Mark’s comparisons between Neil Peart’s music and the realities of business.