Q: Could improving this actually make it worse? A: Let’s learn a lesson from old roads There’s a slogan along the highways of Texas that says, “Drive friendly, the Texas way”. I think people only drive… Read More »Inefficiency as a Desirable Outcome
Q: If it’s bad, why don’t we fix it?A: Because many of the problems that go unresolved are “slow”. When you fall off a ladder and break an arm, it’s very apparent. The bone is… Read More »Slow & Fast Problems
Q: Is “lowest price” the right framework for purchasing decisions?A: Not if it costs you significant quality. I’m learning to reframe my thinking from “cost” oriented to “value”. I grew up reading restaurant menus from… Read More »Best Price vs Best Value
Q: When is better not actually better?A: What’s better for a tree might not be better for the forest. My sunglasses are great; but I wish they were worse. Inside my car I’ve got an… Read More »Sunglasses
Q: Why has progress stalled?A: You need permission for the next move. Often there are promotions, endeavors, trips, or decisions that get stalled because you need permission for the next step. When that happens, when… Read More »Permission
Q: How do you know if it’s a bad idea or a disagreeable person?A: Separate substance from style to find out. From James Clear: “A phrase I heard recently and found useful: I agree with… Read More »Separating Substance from Style
Q: How does one of the best investors of our time think about investments?A: In decades, not days. Warren Buffett has a remarkable track record for investing, but not because of “unicorn” companies or wild-startups,… Read More »To Win Big, Think Long-Term
Q: Will buying some thing make me happy? A: Only for a moment, and here’s why… Systems engineer and environmental scientist Donella Meadows on nonmaterial needs: “People don’t need enormous cars; they need admiration and respect.… Read More »The Deeper Need
Q: If you were detained in a third-world prison who would you call to get you out?A: That’s the most high-agency person you know. “Agency” refers to someone’s capacity to exert power. When someone is… Read More »High & Low Agency
Q: What’s the best way to quantify experience? A: Think about the depth and width. There are generalists and their are specialists; either can be better depending on what you need. Want to get you annual… Read More »Depth or Width of Experience