There have been numerous technologies that have emerged or hit the mainstream in my adult life that have spawned multiple billion dollar companies. EVs/charging, renewables, crypto/fintech, much of “modern” social media, same day/last mile delivery, drones, etc. Probably at least a few that I don’t know exist. Looking back across the history of business and innovation in the 1900s, this doesn’t seem that anomalous.
I think the actionable framing of this is -
- Build skills that are transferable between different industries that allow you to take advantage of the areas of greatest opportunity as they emerge.
- Build a network of likeminded people with complimentary skills who are willing to take a flyer on opportunities with you.
- Make friends with people with money who will fund these efforts, or build a resume that will make you an appealing founder or very, very early employee to VCs.
I do think that the situation of your birth has a major impact on your ability to put yourself in this position - I’m less sure about the timing aspect.