“Let it sink…”

The truth is, we are the result of our past decisions and lessons.

And what holds us back the most from learning?

Surprisingly, it's our ego.

Power moves

Success vs. Failure: shifting focus to systems

I used to believe that success was unique and that failure was the norm.

So I thought learning from failures was the best approach.

I was convinced that people sharing their success stories were simply selling us their “winning lottery numbers” - outcomes that couldn’t be replicated.

It might be explained as pure luck.

But over time, I realized that luck is often just a term we use to describe gaps in our understanding of a system.

When I studied success case studies, I focused on the path but overlooked the underlying frameworks and logic.

It was like preparing for a marathon by watching someone cross the finish line and focusing on their shoes and outfit, without considering the training, nutrition, and strategies that helped them get there.

Learning from Systems, Not Just Outcomes

Success is not an accident; there must be a system behind it.

If there is a system, there are ways to replicate it.

As soon as I realized this, I set “Don’t set goals, build systems” as the wallpaper on my Mac.

Consider these examples:

- Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink

- Steve Jobs: Apple, NeXT, Pixar

- Richard Branson: Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Records, Virgin Mobile

- Peter Thiel: PayPal, Palantir Technologies

- Jack Dorsey: Twitter, Square

Each of these legends achieved success multiple times in entirely different industries.

Yet, it’s hard to believe they each had completely unrelated approaches with nothing in common.

The lesson?

Success leaves clues - if we can understand the systems behind them.

So, why the heck we were often encouraged to learn from failure?

Simple.

Failures are discouraging.

Consistent failures take away motivation.

In many cases, it leads to apathy, where you stop moving forward - even though success might be just around the corner.

To make ourselves feel better, we often call this a "learning experience."

Success, in contrast, is motivating in itself.

It builds self-confidence and addiction.

Which drives your motivation.

For example, fitness goals: achieving small milestones, like running a 5K, can boost your confidence to take on more ambitious goals, such as improving your time, increasing the distance, or both.

There is a clear reason for military awards. They aim to recognize honor, symbolize achievement, and boost morale.

It becomes much easier to stay committed despite physical or mental challenges.

Don’t get me wrong, though - failures still offer valuable lessons.

Analyzing what went wrong and using that insight to refine your approach can be an important part of growth.

If you are keen to learn about strategies for learning from failures, I could recommend this article from HBR Strategies for Learning from Failure

Still, I believe that success often provides more information for improvement than failure.

Example of a system in action

Real-life example:

You’re applying for a job and fail an interview. It’s less likely they will give you feedback.

What have you learned?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what went wrong or what to improve.

You can only assume, which might (or most likely) be wrong.

But…

If you successfully land a few job offers, you start to recognize patterns that contributed to your success.

Now you’re more likely to replicate them.

Pro-tip: Learn from others’ successes by finding mentors or peers who excel in your field. Seek their guidance.

Did you know that Mark Zuckerberg’s primary mentor was Steve Jobs?

And Steve Jobs, in turn, was mentored by Robert Noyce, co-founder of Intel.

Can’t find a mentor? Try books.

No books? Define a problem and search for a solution online - chances are, it’s out there.

Still nothing?

Then, roll your sleeves - it might be a great opportunity to learn from your own mistakes.

Just keep moving forward.

I’ve spent countless hours studying the biographies of great people.

Of course, each had unique life paths, philosophies, and sometimes even contradictory beliefs.

However, one thing in common: the sheer number of actions they took.

The key is to keep moving forward, no matter how small each step might seem.

Small actions keep us from isolating ourselves or slipping into inaction.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, success is a combination of two principles:

- “Do more” (increasing quantity)

- “Do better” (improving quality)

This month, I’m practicing something new.

Each morning, I spend 5-7 minutes answering the question:

“How can I work better today?”

Why not give it a try?

Till next time.

Our favorite digital finds

Short & Sweet

Principles - 6 min read.

A great collection of 63 principles. Some really resonated with me, while others made me pause to reflect, think, and take notes.

Ten Ways to Make Your Time Matter - 6 min read.

We don’t live to be productive; we strive for productivity to improve our lives. Finding balance and avoiding the obsession with productivity is key. Here’s a short list of ideas on how to use our time wisely.

Why do people believe true things? - 14 min read.

Many people believe things that aren’t true. But why? It’s actually easier to understand why people believe false things than why they believe what’s true. The bigger question is: how can we know what’s true?

Press Play

The Crystal Method released this set for Nike. It's probably my all-time favorite running music. It starts with a slow warm-up, and then builds with the beat. So good.

Add this to your shelf

Another great book from the author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In this one, Brian helps us identify what truly matters and how to prioritize those things. By focusing on what’s most important, you can accomplish more and feel happier.

Unpacking the routines of interesting people

Winston Churchill was a great leader who helped Britain fight against Nazi Germany during World War II. He was a strong, inspiring speaker and a talented writer.

Cool facts:

• Whiskey as a Productivity Tool: He started his work sessions with whiskey and soda, which he believed helped stimulate his creativity and focus.

• A Power Napper: Churchill was a master of the power nap. He took a nap for an hour and a half, a habit he had acquired while in Cuba. He claimed that naps allowed him to do a day and a half’s work in 24 hours.

• A Night Owl: He was known to work late into the night, often fueled by strong cigars and a glass of whiskey.

• The acronym "OMG": (Oh My God) was first recorded in a letter to Churchill from Lord Fisher in 1917, marking an amusing historical moment in communication

• A Productive Writer: He wrote numerous books and speeches, even while serving as Prime Minister during WWII.

Watch-worthy clips

Rory is amazing at understanding people’s psychology and behavior. On top of that, his stories are filled with great examples and explanations of what’s going on in people’s minds.

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