[Notes] On Person: Elon Musk

22 Apr, 2025

The Algorithm:

1. Question every requirement.
   • Even if it came from some department or a smart person.
   • Then make the requirement less dumber.
2. Delete any part of the process you can.
   • You may have to add it back later.
   • In fact, if you don't end up adding back at least 10% of them, you didn't delete enough.
3. Simplify and optimize.
   • Always do this only after step 1 & 2 are done.
   • Don't end up simplifying/optimizing a part/process that shouldn't even exist.
4. Accelerate cycle time.
   • Always do this only after step 1, 2, & 3 are done.
   • Every process can be speeded up.
5. Automate last.
   • At last, automate after all the bugs are dealt with.

Corollaries to the Algorithm:

• All technical managers must have hands-on experience.
• Comradery is dangerous. It makes it hard for people to challenge each others' work.
• It is okay to be wrong, just don't be confident and wrong.
• Never ask your troops to do something you're not willing to do.
• Whenever there are problems to be solved, have a skip-level meeting.
• When hiring, look for attitude. Skills can be taught.
• A maniacal sense of urgency should be the operating principal.
• The only rules are the ones dictated by physics. Everything else is a recommendation.

Other Points:

• Cut out anyone or anything that slows down progress.
• Create a crisis or spectacle to get people moving.
• Have brutal honesty & really high standards.

Learnings:

• Leverage neurodivergence as a superpower.
• Use first principles thinking in both security & business strategy.
• Channel the emotional intensity into drive.
• Treat each project as a showcase.
• Document & publish insights.
• Attract interest by having a big vision.
• Form selective alliances by focusing only on key business relationships.
• Build mastery in a niche first.
• Only hire A-players in the team who fit the mission, vision, & culture.