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How to Win (without talent or luck)
Episode 32
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How to Win (without talent or luck)
We all want to win.
Our definitions of “winning” vary—it may mean happiness and fulfillment to some, money and fame to others—but in some way, shape, or form, we all want to win.
The problem? We’ve been told that we can’t win without incredible talent (or sensational luck).
This is wrong.
Here’s How to Win (without talent or luck): 20+ principles for your career, relationships, and life…
Operate in Your Zone of Genius
Your Zone of Genius is where your interests, passions and skills align.
Operating in your Zone of Genius means playing games you are uniquely well-suited to win.
Once you identify it, you can stop playing *their* games and start playing *yours*.
Adopt a Positive Sum Mentality
Want to get ahead in life? Start genuinely rooting for others to succeed.
When one of us wins, we all win—winning spreads. If you adopt that mentality, you’ll become a magnet for the highest quality people.
Speak Up
Closed mouths don’t get fed. A little push goes a long way.
Don't sit back and wait for good things to happen. If you want something—and you’ve put in the work for it—speak up and ask for it.
Worst Case: you’re told no and nothing has changed.
Best Case: it’s yours.
Play Long-Term Games
Life is the ultimate long game.
Those with low time preference play it more effectively—they happily delay gratification to allow compounding to work its magic. In a world of people seeking instant gratification, this is a meaningful edge.
Have a High Tolerance for Failure
We fear failure, so most of us play it safe to avoid it. But our greatest moments of growth often stem directly from our greatest failures.
Don't accept failure, but don't fear it either.
You will fail. Embrace it. Fail smart and fast.
Follow Your Curiosity
Humans are born with astonishing curiosity. But somewhere along the way, we're told to stop asking questions.
Push back.
Learn to follow your curiosity—trust it. For the curious mind, anything is possible. Fortune favors the curious.
Adopt a Process Orientation
Prioritize process, not outcomes.
When you prioritize process, you become flexible in where you are headed—you focus on the inputs and stop worrying about the outputs.
Just keep laying one brick at a time—forward progress is all that matters.
Prioritize People
Everything in life comes down to people and relationships.
Networks compound as well as any financial investment. Build an army of mentors, friends, and evangelists that is deep and wide. Cultivate deep relationships, but also embrace the power of weak ties.
Work Like a Lion
Modern work culture is a remnant of the Industrial Age. It encourages long periods
Published on 4 years, 2 months ago