Over the last few weeks, I’ve been experimenting with AI robots and exploring what they’re capable of.

It immediately reminded me of one of Steve Jobs’ favorite books: The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen.

The core idea of the book is simple but powerful:
successful companies often fail because they become too committed to the products and business models that made them successful in the first place.

Instead of embracing disruptive technology early, they protect what already works.

History is full of examples:

• Kodak ignored digital photography.
• Blockbuster dismissed streaming.
• Blackberry underestimated the smartphone revolution.

Each company dominated its market — until disruption changed the rules.

It also connects to another concept: the Icarus Paradox.

In Greek mythology, created wings that allowed him to fly. But he became overconfident, flew too close to the sun, and the wings melted.

The same thing happens in business.

What makes you successful can also become your weakness.

Past success creates confidence, but sometimes that confidence blinds companies — and people — to emerging technologies and changing behavior.

AI feels like one of those moments.

The companies and individuals willing to experiment, adapt, and rethink old assumptions will likely shape the next decade.

The ones clinging too tightly to yesterday’s success may struggle to survive tomorrow.