Compound effect
We all know that the compound effect takes time, but do we? Are we willing to put in the work, be invisible for the next 10 years, but come out as an expert in one area at the end? We usually don’t think about such a long time frame, we can barely stick with something for a year, let alone for 10 years. So how can we change this? The first step is to trust the compound effect will do its thing, and the next step is doing the work.
Pick something fundamental
The moment we start thinking about 10 years into the future, we don’t have many options to pick from, we have to stick to something basic, something we know it’s not gonna change. So instead of asking, what will the world look like in the next 10 years, let’s ask the opposite question, what will not change in the next 10 years? To answer that, let’s another question, what has not changed in the past 10 years? Also, we could ask, what could I have mastered 10 years ago that would have given me a huge advantage in my life right now?
I think it’s pretty easy to answer that question, couple of answers:
- Becoming a disciplined person
- Becoming really good at prioritizing work
- Become really good at writing and speaking
- Master data structures and algorithms
- Master SOLID principles
- Develop the ability to do deep work (Cal Newport’s idea)
- Developed a strong workout habit
- Developing a reading habit
- Becoming a good listener
- Picking a good analog hobby (Cal Newport’s idea)
Get to work
So, what are the 3 things you wanna focus on for the next 10 years? You can’t go wrong with any of the above.