Introduction
Every socially and historically productive human being is obsessed with something. It simply has to be this way. When obsession is directed toward goals and dreams, rather than draining mental hurdles that drag a person down and waste time, something truly monumental emerges. Usually, that something is success.
In our view, this is the most critical distinction of success. Of course, success depends on many factors. But just as there are different moving parts working inside a car, there are three components that can be considered the most essential among the factors of success: the individual subject, obsession, and the system. This series was written to outline, exemplify, and elaborate on these concepts. Because to actually do something, one must truly comprehend it, not merely perceive it.
We call this journey and the steps we have built to perceive and achieve success the "Step by Step" methodology. These are the steps that have guided dozens of founders, entrepreneurs, and many companies finding their footing.
The series you are reading consists of 6 main chapters. These chapters are also the very steps we view as the path to success. We have observed that while the experiences, details, and events of individuals and organizations may change, the underlying meaning remains constant. Each step carries a summary quote and a core concept. To introduce them:
1. Development (Gelişim)
This stage is the step where the idea or the founder matures. It is the phase where capabilities and strengths must be recognized, and the product and path will be determined accordingly. In Japanese philosophy, the concept that directly corresponds to this step is "Ikigai." It answers four questions:
- a. As a company or a founder, what do you love? What are you passionate about?
- b. What is your capability? In what area are you good, advantaged, or superior?
- c. What is the need and problem of your target audience or sphere of influence—a concept that constitutes a major part of this book?
- d. How can you turn this into a sustainable revenue model?
2. Setup (Kurulum)
This is the stage where the self-aware founder or company builds the structure. The foundations are laid here. This phase is directly aligned with Sellf's BHS (Brand Health Score) methodology. Here, individuals or companies answer four fundamental questions:
- a. What should be the developmental stages of this idea, project, or brand?
- b. In alignment with these stages, what should the structure of the required team or stakeholders look like?
- c. What is the revenue model / sustainability model? (In the Sellf mentality, revenue and earnings are directly synonymous with sustainability.)
- d. What is my place within this, and how can I establish a system that functions in my absence?
3. Maturation (Olgunlaşma)
At this stage, individuals or organizations begin to see the first results. Mistakes and errors are noted, and the system is improved. This is the point where the margin of error is minimized, and action is taken based on reaction. The core motto of this stage is: "Reaction before Action." The brand or individual must answer the following questions:
- a. What is the required volume or number of feedback for me to consider a review or a problem legitimate?
- b. In light of this feedback, what improvements need to be made to increase the satisfaction and response coefficient of the model we determined in the Development and Setup stages?
- c. Do I need to add new products/services that respond to current needs?
- d. Who are our competitors, and what are the areas where we fall short?
4. The Threshold of Pain (Acı Eşiği)
This is the stage that matures individuals and brands, making them competent. And unfortunately, this stage is inevitable. This is the phase where everyone says, "My service is completely useless" or "I am just not cut out for this." The good news is: the more properly the first three steps were taken, the shorter this process lasts. This is not a process of improvement; it is a process of reflection, endurance, and perception. The certification of sustainability and success lies in being able to endure the pain at this stage.
5. Expansion (Genişleme)
This is the stage where individuals and brands truly grow. It is not just about gathering a few customers, a few readers, or an audience; it is the stage of real growth. There is a "Threshold" between the 4th and 5th stages. We call this the "Threshold of Dawn" among ourselves. Most of the time, we don't notice this threshold until we look back. But that one customer, that one reader comment, an invitation, an email—that is the threshold. To sustain this at this stage, individuals must be able to answer three questions:
- a. What are the three most important factors that brought me this result?
- b. How do I apply this to other products, projects, or ideas and systematize it?
- c. How can I maintain this momentum?
6. Seasoning (Yıllanma)
When the first five steps are taken correctly, this stage is one of peace. However, only one thing matters here: not falling into complacency. A person can rest, but they cannot give up before they die. The reason why many founders and companies stagnate instead of multiplying their success coefficient or venturing into greater achievements comes down to a single concept: "Success Complacency." Those who pass to the next step—beyond success—without falling for this are not just successful; they are truly "Great" people and brands.
7. (Bonus) Repetition (Tekrar)
Repetition is life. What is needed to keep success alive and make it grow is repetition. As a result of these steps, true experience is gained. Those who add this to their arsenal and repeat it do not just achieve success; they grow it and keep it alive.
Of course, these concepts are not solely related to starting a business or building a brand. These are questions and steps that apply to a writer, an actor, a corporation, or a brand alike. The words may change, the required results and metrics may change, but these steps can be applied to any path leading to success. Because these steps do not simply show you the road to success; they teach you how to see ahead and how to take your next step, no matter how rugged that road may be.
Shall we begin?