"Google no es una empresa convencional y no tenemos la intención de convertirnos en una."

Google set out from the start to be different. They didn't want to be just another average tech company. This approach is at the heart of everything they do. Instead of following traditional corporate norms, they've tried to foster a culture that's innovative and a bit unorthodox.

Let's take a step back and think about the 90s. Back then, the internet was still in its early days. Google started in 1998, co-founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while they were Ph.D. students at Stanford. They launched with a mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. It might sound a bit grand, but it wasn't just about creating a search engine—it was about changing the way we find and use information. From the beginning, Page and Brin infused their company with a unique ethos. They didn’t want it to become bogged down by bureaucracy and old-fashioned ways of doing things.

Imagine you're working at Google. The office isn't filled with cubicles. Instead, you see open spaces, colorful lounges, and even recreation areas. The goal? To create an environment where people feel comfortable, can collaborate easily, and where creativity can flow freely. They’ve always believed that happy employees are productive employees. This unconventional approach has led to some of their most innovative products, from Gmail to Google Maps.

Think about 20% time. Ever heard of it? At Google, employees were encouraged to spend 20% of their time working on projects that weren't part of their normal job. This policy led to the creation of Google News, Gmail, and even AdSense. It’s a brilliant example of how breaking away from conventional structures can lead to incredible innovation.

So, how can you apply this in your life? First, don’t be afraid to stray from the beaten path. If there's something you're passionate about, make time for it—even if it doesn’t fit into your usual routine. Also, create environments that foster creativity and collaboration. Whether it's rearranging your workspace or setting up regular brainstorming sessions with friends or colleagues, the right environment can make a huge difference.

Imagine this: You’re working in a small startup. The culture is pretty standard—9 to 5, strict roles, and a rigid hierarchy. But you believe things could be different. Inspired by Google, you suggest that every Friday afternoon should be dedicated to "innovation time." People can work on whatever projects they're passionate about. At first, it seems like a gamble. But after a few months, you start to see results. There's a new product feature that users love, and another team figures out a way to improve your system's efficiency. Morale is higher, and people are genuinely excited about their work.

This story shows that even small changes can have a big impact. By stepping away from conventional methods, you can find new paths to success. So, the next time you’re faced with a decision, think about how you can do things differently. Break the mold, and who knows what you might achieve?