Jeff Bezos once highlighted a crucial aspect of business strategy: the importance of focusing on what will not change over time. While many are preoccupied with predicting future trends, Bezos suggests that businesses should build their strategies around stable, enduring elements. For example, in retail, customers will always want low prices, fast delivery, and a wide selection. These desires are constants that won’t change in the next 10 years. By concentrating on these unchanging needs, businesses can create a solid foundation that will continue to satisfy customers, regardless of how other aspects of the market evolve.
This principle isn’t just for retail giants like Amazon; it’s applicable to any business or entrepreneurial venture. Whether you’re running a small local shop or a tech startup, understanding the unchanging aspects of your industry can help you make better decisions. It allows you to allocate resources wisely and focus on long-term goals rather than short-term trends. For instance, good customer service, high-quality products, and ethical business practices are aspects that customers will always value. By investing in these areas, you’re not just keeping up with the competition; you’re building a business that will stand the test of time.
In the context of a Christian worldview, this principle also aligns with biblical teachings. Ecclesiastes 1:9 says, “There is nothing new under the sun.” While technology and societal norms may change, fundamental human needs and values remain the same. Just as a business should focus on timeless customer desires, Christians are encouraged to focus on eternal truths. Our ability to focus and execute missions based on unchanging, eternal truths ensures that our work is relevant. By grounding ourselves in what is unchanging, we can navigate the ever-shifting landscape of life and business with confidence and clarity.
