Wayfair CEO Reveals His 4 Drivers of Long-Term Retail Success

Other examples of Wayfair making decisions with the end game in mind include instituting its current 100 percent drop-ship model to begin stocking inventory; opening new warehouses to offer two-day shipping; experimenting with TV advertising; and adjusting media buys and creative.

3. Map out different opportunities so you always have an answer to “What's next?" "Invest profit into new ideas and strategic growth initiatives," Shah said. "And, most importantly, listen to all your customers. They will always tell you what's next."