STEP 1.1: A CASE STUDY
A Founder Finds His Ikigai
Follow Sam, a talented software developer, as he uses the 'Ikigai for Innovators' framework to find a viable business idea at the intersection of his skills and passions.
The Challenge: From Side Projects to a Real Business
Sam is a developer who also enjoys freelance writing as a side hustle. He's full of ideas for software tools but struggles to pick one to focus on. His ideas feel disconnected from a real problem.
He wants to build a micro-SaaS business but needs to find a specific, compelling niche that leverages his unique combination of skills in both coding and writing.
The Action: The 'Ikigai for Innovators' Exercise
Sam uses the four-quadrant exercise to map out his unique intersection of passions, skills, and market needs.
What Sam Loves
- Building simple, elegant software
- Writing and the creative process
- Helping other creatives succeed
What Sam is Good At
- Full-stack web development
- Understanding the freelance writer's workflow
- Simplifying complex processes
What the World Needs
- Better tools for freelance business management
- Alternatives to messy spreadsheets and generic project tools
- Ways for creatives to spend less time on admin
What Sam's Mission Is
- To empower freelancers to be more professional
- To build tools that feel joyful to use
- To help writers reclaim their time for creative work
The Outcome: 4 Core Insight Statements
After pinning his key ideas, Sam uses Ki to synthesize them into his four Core Insight Statements, forming the foundation for his new venture.
Core Motivation/Subject: A love for building simple systems that bring order to creative chaos.
Core Strength/Skill: A rare ability to understand both the technical side of software and the practical needs of a freelance writer.
Urgent Problem/Audience: Freelance writers are struggling to manage their business, using a patchwork of tools that wastes time and creates stress.
Ultimate Impact: To give writers the tools and confidence to run a profitable, organized business so they can focus on their craft.