In life, at work, and even in capoeira, I consistently remind myself that what brought me here won’t take me there.
Transitioning to the next level or pursuing a new goal requires a completely different set of skills and activities. It’s not just about doubling up your current efforts.
“You’re more likely to unlock a big leap in performance by trying differently than by trying harder. You might be able to work 10% harder, but a different approach might work 10x better. Remain focused on the core problem, but explore a new line of attack. Persistence is not just about effort, but also strategy. Don’t merely try harder, try differently.”
James Clear
There is always a glass ceiling, in every step. You need to do something totally different to break through it. And there are no bonus points in life for doing it the hard way.
There is a lot to be gained in life by acting fast and giving your best effort, but there is also a lot to be gained by reducing friction. Focus not only on what to do and what to add, but also on what to stop, what to remove.
Focusing on continuous improvement rather than dwelling on past mistakes or victories is crucial for personal growth.
Further reading
- “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There”, a book by Marshall Goldsmith