The hedgehog concept is based on three circles, all the same size and all equally important. Those three circles intersect in the middle, and this is where you need to aim.
the first circle in the concept of hedgehog it implies that in which you can be the best. This is not intended to be a goal, a strategy, an intention or a plan. It’s a clear statement of fact, developed by taking an honest look at where you can shine. It is just as important to define the areas in which you lack skills.
This is not necessarily related to your skills in a certain area. You may be very good at math, but that doesn’t mean you can be the best person in the world at math, even with a lot of effort. Keep in mind that what you might be the best at may also be something you’re not doing right now. Before computers, how did Bill Gates know he was the best in the world?
the second circle ask what is driving its economic engine. Discover the only denominator that gives you benefits while allowing you to pursue your passion.
In the third circle, you discover what you are deeply passionate about. Ask yourself this question: If you were making all the money you could ever need and were doing this job, would you still come to work? When you can tell yourself. “I’m the luckiest person in the world right now. I was made for this job!” You really have it made.
The most important thing is in the middle, at the intersection of these three circles. If you could live your life in that place, you would have made it. You’ll be doing something that works with your core competition, something where you can be the best in the world. You are deeply passionate about your work and can’t believe you get paid for this. That passion and joy drives its economic engine.
You want to be right in the middle of the hedgehog concept. It’s no use having two out of three… you want it all! If you are passionate about what you do and you do it well, but you can’t make money, you will be very frustrated. If you’re good at what you do and you’re making a lot of money, but you hate your job, it’s not worth it. If there’s money to be made in an industry you’re passionate about, but you’re not good at it, that too can be frustrating. So we want to stay at the intersection of these three circles.
Of course, that will mean some research on your part. Look for your hedgehog concept, as you look for the intersection of those three circles. Everything you do must lead you towards the intersection. When it happens, you will find that this guides not only your business choices, but also your life choices.