Break free from outdated business practices and focus on practical, results-driven approaches to success.
Break free from outdated business practices and focus on practical, results-driven approaches to success.
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Introduction
Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson is a bold rejection of traditional business norms. It provides practical advice for building and running a successful company with simplicity, agility, and focus. Instead of following outdated, complex methods, the book encourages a fresh mindset that prioritises action, clarity, and sustainability.
Reject the “real world”
Conventional wisdom often stifles innovation. The authors argue that phrases like “that’s how it’s done” are excuses for mediocrity. True progress comes from questioning assumptions and breaking free of outdated norms.
Stay small, stay agile
Instead of chasing growth for growth’s sake, Rework advocates staying small and lean. Small teams are faster, more efficient, and better at adapting to change. Focus on doing less, but doing it exceptionally well.
Act now, iterate later
Perfection delays progress. Launch a “good enough” product or service quickly, gather feedback, and improve iteratively. Waiting for perfection often means missing opportunities.
Focus on what matters
Cut out the noise—unnecessary meetings, long reports, and distractions. These are productivity killers. Say no to anything that doesn’t directly contribute to your goals.
Be bold, not safe
Stand out by taking strong stances. Trying to please everyone waters down your message. Instead, be unapologetic in what you believe and let your audience resonate deeply with your vision.
Prioritise results over effort
Success isn’t about working longer hours or trying harder—it’s about working smarter. Efficient systems and a focus on impactful work matter more than hustle culture.
Systemise and delegate
The ultimate goal is to create a business that doesn’t rely on you for every decision. Build systems that allow your company to function smoothly and delegate tasks effectively.
Do it yourself first
Before hiring or outsourcing, learn to do the work yourself. This builds insight, saves money, and ensures you understand your business inside-out.
Don’t be afraid to polarise
Taking risks and standing out might alienate some people, but it will create loyal advocates. Avoid generic, watered-down approaches; instead, craft bold, memorable messaging and products.
Key Principles
Conclusion
Rework challenges the idea that success requires massive investments, long hours, or traditional strategies. It shows that simplicity, focus, and boldness are the keys to building a business that thrives on its own terms. This book is for anyone tired of outdated business advice and ready to embrace a no-fluff, practical approach to entrepreneurship.
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Watch the free course and follow the 3 marketers while they each execute 6 experiments. See the tactics they use and the results they get.
Free course
45 min
English, Dutch
I’ve helped B2B service companies scale — not with random tactics, but with clear systems that align marketing and sales into one predictable growth engine. Built on 15 years of hands-on experience — helping teams move from random tactics to repeatable, scalable results.
15 years experience
1,500 marketers trained since 2015
Exited 6 companies
My name is Ewoud Uphof, a marketing strategist with 15 years of experience. I've been fascinated by growth since 2010, and I created this guide out of a passion for sharing what I've learned. These guides are a way for me to give back to the marketing community and are also linked to my video course, which covers these topics in even greater depth.
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