In a fast-paced world driven by instant gratification and viral success stories, it’s easy to believe that greatness happens overnight. But Yi Shi, the trailblazing entrepreneur behind DotC United Group and Avazu Holding, knows otherwise. His journey underscores the value of focus, patience, and building sustainable business models that stand the test of time.
“Building a sustainable business isn’t about chasing trends,” Yi explains. “It’s about sticking to what matters, even when it’s not glamorous.”
Yi Shi’s formula for enduring success is a roadmap every aspiring business leader can follow.
Key Elements of a Sustainable Business
- Build a Moat with Cutting-Edge AI
Yi Shi emphasizes the importance of creating a competitive advantage that others can’t easily replicate. For him, this has meant leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies such as Agentic AI systems, AI Sales Development Representatives (AI SDRs), and Systems of Agents. These innovations are the moats that protect his ventures from competition by optimizing efficiency, scaling personalization, and delivering precise, data-driven solutions.
Through his ventures, Yi demonstrated how AI could solve critical market gaps. For example, AI SDRs automate and personalize customer outreach at scale, making businesses more agile and customer-focused in markets like Japan and the U.S.
- Focus on Compounding Growth
Sustainability isn’t about short-term wins; it’s about consistent, long-term progress. Yi likens his approach to planting a tree: “The early days might feel like you’re just watering dirt, but over time, the roots grow deep and the tree stands tall.”
This principle guided his ventures, including the development of Systems of Agents—AI-powered ecosystems capable of automating complex tasks and making autonomous decisions. By focusing on tools that could deliver compounding returns over time, Yi positioned his businesses as market leaders in rapidly evolving industries.
- Prioritize Sustainable Models
Yi cautions against the pitfalls of prioritizing short-term profits over longevity. He advocates for business models built on strong foundations, including clear value propositions, efficient operations, and ethical practices.
His use of Agentic AI to streamline processes and foster innovation exemplifies this approach. These systems not only solve immediate challenges but also position businesses to thrive in the long run, particularly in competitive environments like the U.S. and Japan.
Putting It Into Action
Yi Shi’s principles aren’t just theoretical—they’re strategies he has implemented throughout his career:
- At Avazu Holding, he built a top ad-tech company by focusing on quality over quantity, creating scalable, reliable systems tailored for global markets.
- At DotC United Group, he fostered a culture of innovation while ensuring the company’s offerings addressed real market needs.
His ability to remain laser-focused on long-term goals, even during turbulent times, has set him apart as a leader who values sustainability over short-lived success.
Practical Advice for Business Leaders
Yi Shi’s story offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs looking to build sustainable businesses:
- Identify Your Moat: Leverage technologies like Agentic AI and AI SDRs to create unique advantages that are difficult to replicate.
- Embrace the Power of Small Wins: Recognize that growth is a journey. Celebrate incremental victories as steps toward larger achievements.
- Think Beyond the Now: Make decisions with a five-year horizon in mind, not just the next quarter.
Conclusion: Success Rooted in Focus and Patience
Yi Shi’s story is a reminder that lasting success isn’t about being the loudest or the fastest—it’s about being the most focused. By prioritizing sustainable growth through innovative technologies and long-term thinking, he has built businesses that thrive in competitive markets like Japan and the U.S.
“Stay the course,” Yi advises. “The rewards of sustainable growth are worth the patience and discipline it requires.”
Take a page from Yi Shi’s playbook: focus on what matters, leverage transformative AI technologies, and build a business that stands tall—rooted in principles designed to last a lifetime.
