One Zero Annual Goals

A framework for thinking big while staying focused, based on Sam Altman's approach to scaling and goal setting.

Core Philosophy

• Focus on adding one zero to what you're doing each year
• Don't think beyond the next zero
• Helps think big without becoming delusionally optimistic

Real World Application Examples

• Advised Brian Chesky (Airbnb founder) to change all "M's to B's" in his pitch deck
• When Chesky projected $100M in revenue, Altman pushed for $1B
• Justified this by saying one of three things must be true:
  • You don't believe what you told me
  • I'm dumb and didn't understand
  • I don't know math

Key Principles

• Relentless focus on few things rather than many
• Think big but stay grounded
  • Don't get lost in fantasy land
  • Keep goals ambitious but achievable
• Execute with conviction on the current zero
  • Don't get distracted by longer-term zeros
  • Focus energy on immediate scaling challenges

Implementation Strategy

• Identify current baseline metrics
• Set clear 10x target for the year
• Break down what needs to happen to add that zero
• Ignore temptation to plan multiple zeros ahead
• Focus all energy on achieving the next zero only

Benefits

• Provides clear scaling framework
• Prevents overwhelm from too-distant goals
• Balances ambition with focus
• Creates actionable growth targets
• Maintains momentum through incremental scaling