Diplo: College Dropout To World's Most Iconic DJ

Mar 24, 2022 1h 4m 13 insights
Diplo, a Grammy-winning DJ and producer, discusses his unconventional journey from a troubled youth to a global music icon. He shares insights on the importance of discipline, relentless work ethic, continuous learning, finding unique market niches, and navigating the mental health challenges and work-life balance in a high-pressure industry.
Actionable Insights

1. Cultivate Relentless Discipline

Apply yourself to finding and achieving goals, even if you lack technical abilities. This foundational discipline, instilled early, can be the separating factor for success in any field.

2. Find Your Unique Niche

In a crowded market, identify what makes you unique and lean into it aggressively. If an idea feels weird or untapped, it often indicates a significant opportunity because no one else is exploring it.

3. Maintain a Hunger for Learning

Develop a continuous drive to figure things out and teach yourself new skills, whether it’s music production, business acumen, or cultural knowledge. This self-directed learning is crucial for growth and innovation.

4. Be a Futuristic Trendsetter

As a creative, aim to predict future trends and create work that sounds futuristic, rather than following current fads. This approach, exemplified by greats like Prince and Pharrell, allows your work to trendset and last.

5. Embrace Conceptual Problem-Solving

Approach creative challenges as conceptual math problems, figuring out how different elements combine to work. This mindset can lead to unique ‘flavors’ and solutions, especially when lacking traditional technical mastery.

6. Build a Supportive, Trusting Team

Surround yourself with a team that believes in your vision and allows you to be yourself. This core group’s opinions are what truly matter, providing motivation and stability in a demanding career.

7. Block Out External Critics

Do not get caught up in the opinions of people who don’t like you, especially on social media. Focus on the feedback from your trusted inner circle and family to protect your mental well-being.

8. Prioritize Breaks and Slow Down

Recognize when you are running at an unsustainable pace and intentionally take breaks. Periods of downtime are essential for reassessing life, enjoying family, and benefiting your mind, even if it feels counterintuitive to an obsessive drive.

9. Invest in Your Own Ventures

Learn small business acumen by investing in and promoting your own projects, like throwing parties. This allows you to take ownership and directly profit from your efforts, rather than just working for others.

10. Give Great Songs Every Opportunity

When you have a truly great song, dedicate significant effort to its production and promotion. While not every song will be a hit, the best ones deserve every chance to reach a wide audience.

11. Maintain Daily Physical Activity

Incorporate at least an hour of physical activity, like going to the gym or doing yoga, into your daily routine. This helps manage jet lag and maintain a sense of normalcy amidst a chaotic lifestyle.

12. Be Present with Your Children

Prioritize simple, present moments with your children, such as watching cartoons or playing games, over grand gestures or trips. These everyday connections are often more memorable and impactful for them.

13. Cultivate Inner Resilience

Develop the internal belief that you can lose everything and still be okay, ready to start over in a new endeavor. This mindset fosters comfort and reduces the pressure of external success.