A couple years ago, I read an excellent business book called Rework from the guys at 37 Signals. Full of inspiration and motivation, and geared toward startups, especially SAAS startups. Here are 8 key gems I learned from Rework:

– Start making something – you don’t have to have everything planned out, just get started doing something

– Don’t try to build a THING you’re passionate about, but rather work in a WAY you’re passionate about (really like that one)

– Minimum viable product – what’s the least your product or service will do? Figure it out and build that. Then see how people like it. Then you can review it, revise it, and even scrap it altogether if it doesn’t work (without having wasted months).

– Quick wins – if you’re feeling overwhelmed or lacking motivation, do some little things that you know will be easy. Momentum fuels motivation.

– Get some rest – stop trying to do too much. Getting enough rest makes your work more productive. You’ll get more done in less time.

– Put yourself into your product. Build a product that has your unique strengths and talents built in and you won’t have to worry about competition.

– Educational marketing – “teach to reach” – a great way to let people know about your product is to teach them something related to your product or service.

– Give away something of value. Let people try out your product or service for free. Not just a limited trial, but something truly valuable.