It's all about consistency, folks

Probably the only "secret" formula out there is pretty simple

Time to diversify the type of lateral thinking exercises - instead of your usual conundrum, we’re going to add stretch questions into the mix. What’s a stretch question, I hear you asking? Here’s one:

• Name big things that are small

A few answers, at the end. The point of these questions is to break your brain’s usual patterns and start making new connections.

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Sticking to what works

Over time, you’ll realize everyone is trying to sell you some secret formula. If you’re into stocks or investing, you know how true this is - not a day passes without 10 new experts coming up with a new algorithm or patterns to identify valuable investments.

In reality, most people will just repeat what worked for them. If they realize networking is what made them who they are, they’re gonna say networking is key.

If it was some PR bombshell, they’re gonna say that’s the way to go.

We’re pretty simple creatures and we like to think in patterns (pretty sure I touched on this in another newsletter).

The problem is, most of these formulas work when the setting is right. The guy who networked a lot and “made it” probably lived in a big city with a lot of opportunities. What if you don’t? Maybe there’s a simpler way for you to succeed other than moving to a big city.

The person who did the PR bombshell probably knew somebody at a news outlet. Maybe you don’t.

The reality is you have so many options on the table, it’s sometimes hard to pick one and you end up not picking anything for real.

Instead of fussing about what the best course of action is, just start doing. Start consistently trying something, anything, as desperate as that sounds, but deliver on something actionable every day - even if it’s writing a simple newsletter, sending an email to a potential partner or learning one extra word in that foreign language.

It’s definitely not the fastest way or the most efficient one, but it’s bound to get you there (or at least get you further) if you’re consistent enough.

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A few answers for “Name big things that are small”:

• A billion dollar check

• An engagement ring

• A pill that cures cancer

• Pluto (the planet)

Helps if you also invert the logic (“big things that are small” could mean small physical things that represents a big change) or if you define the scope better - Pluto is small compared to other planets in our solar system (yes, yes, it’s not a classified as a planet anymore, that just proves the point).

PS: if you liked this new format/exercise, please let me know (by liking or replying) as it helps me figure out what form this newsletter should take in time.

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