Most people are adept at first-order thinking, able to anticipate the immediate effects of their actions. It’s a basic skill we must develop in adolescence. First-order thinking is simple and quick. There are sometimes benefits to speed in decision-making. But it’s immensely limiting, and often counterproductive, to move swiftly without much regard for direction. That’s why we need second-order thinking.
Second-Order Thinking Read More »
In 2009, Amazon acquired Zappos for roughly $1.2 billion. The story of Zappos’ success is full of hilarity and wonder, but one factor in particular stands out: inversion. Inversion gave Zappos an edge against other retailers by focusing on—and succeeding at—what others weren’t.
How Zappos Capitalized on Inversion Read More »
We live in a complex world full of extraordinary detail and interconnections. It is easy for us to get overwhelmed in an environment like this. But Occam’s Razor is the antidote. The brilliance of Occam’s Razor lies within its simplicity and efficiency. In a world full of noise, Occam’s Razor helps us make good decisions quickly.
Occam’s Razor: Champion of Simplicity Read More »
First principles thinking is a methodology for removing assumptions from foundational factual knowledge. Cutting through the noise to the underlying truth allows us to build off a sturdy foundation. Failure to do so leaves us on shaky ground.
First Principles: Building On a Strong Foundation Read More »
Inversion is a powerful concept that changes our perspective. From a different vantage point, we see things in a new light. Obstacles are removed from our path. It often doesn’t suffice to only think about complex problems in one way; instead, they require us to think about them both forwards and backwards. Carl Gustav Jacob
Inversion: The Value of Changing Perspective Read More »
While a large circle of competence might indicate intelligence, knowing exactly where the boundary of the circle is exemplifies wisdom. As such, knowing the locations of the boundary of the circle trumps the size of the circle. That doesn’t mean we cannot grow our circle. But we should stay within our circle of competence to improve our chances of making good decisions.
Circle of Competence: Stick to What You Know Read More »
Hanlon’s Razor reminds us that we do not know what the intent of others is; we assume it. When we assume others are acting with malice, the dynamic between us is defensive and strained. We struggle to trust. This is the opposite of Hanlon’s Razor. If we practice Hanlon’s Razor, it can help us see the world in a better light and can improve our relationships.
Hanlon’s Razor: Don’t Assume the Worst Read More »
Learning how to think is one of the most important skills one can develop in this life. Mental models are tools that help you think better.
Mental Models: An Overview of Thinking Tools Read More »