Spotting opportunities before your competitors

Section 3 : Developing an opportunity-focused mindset

Opportunities are not always obvious, but they can be found by those who train themselves to think differently. Entrepreneurs who stay ahead of the competition develop a habit of seeking insights and paying attention to shifts in their industries.

• Ask better questions - Challenge why things are done a certain way and consider if there’s a better approach.
• Listen to customers - Complaints and frustrations often reveal your next big business idea.
• Keep an open mind - Opportunities come in unexpected forms. Pay attention to what others dismiss.
• Move fast - Test ideas early rather than waiting for the perfect conditions.

A competitive advantage comes from recognising opportunities while others are still looking in the wrong direction. The more you sharpen this skill, the more doors will open before your competitors even realise they exist.