The Wrong Side of Right: Achieving the Best Outcome

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Aug 18, 2023
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The Wrong Side of Right: Achieving the Best Outcome
In our pursuit of success and validation, we often find ourselves fixated on proving ourselves right. This tendency to prioritize being right over achieving the best possible outcome is what I refer to as the wrong side of right. We become so invested in our beliefs and ideas that we subconsciously seek out evidence that supports them, while dismissing anything that contradicts them. However, this approach hinders our growth and blinds us to the reality of how the world truly works.
At Farnam Street, we adhere to the principle of working with the world as it is, rather than how we want it to be. This means letting go of our desire to be right and instead striving to be less wrong. By adopting this mindset, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and ideas, allowing for better outcomes not only for ourselves but also for those around us. It is crucial to detach our ego from our positions, as a fall in our position should not result in a blow to our identity.
Throughout my journey as an entrepreneur, I have learned that the more I let go of the need to be right, the more positive the outcomes become. It is not about seeking credit or validation; it is about creating the best work possible. By shifting our focus from proving ourselves right to embracing the possibility of being wrong, we create room for growth, collaboration, and innovation.
Generative AI: Personalizing the User Experience
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the way products personalize user experiences. This technology has found early applications in sectors such as edtech and search, where tailored explanations are essential. For instance, when explaining the concept of rainfall, the language used for an eight-year-old would differ from that used for a high school student. Moreover, AI has enabled verticalized approaches, such as Consensus, which searches research papers to provide evidence-backed answers, and Perplexity's Bird SQL product, which targets the Twitter graph by identifying popular tweets about events like the Golden Globes.
Enterprise-oriented applications for internal search have also emerged, with products like Glean and Vowel allowing teams to search across apps and query records of video meetings. The trade-off between effectiveness and scale has long challenged the edtech sector. Striking a balance between personalized learning and mass scalability has been a persistent struggle. However, AI has the potential to bridge this gap, paving the way for more personalized and effective educational experiences.
AI's impact extends beyond personalization; it also has the power to augment and initiate human relationships. Tools like Millie and YourMove optimize dating app profiles and messages, while apps like Mumkin assist users in navigating difficult conversations. In the future, we may even witness the rise of AI chatbots that remind us to check in with loved ones and provide us with the perfect message to send. The concept of a "digital twin" powered by AI, trained on our writing and speech patterns, is not far-fetched. Some individuals have already begun exploring this possibility, as seen in the expansion of generative video editing tools like Descript and RunwayML, as well as the creation of music from scratch by products like Boomy and Riffusion.
The gaming industry, known for its high-quality graphics and immersive experiences, can also benefit from generative AI. Developers often face the challenge of generating numerous media assets, including graphics, 3D models, and soundtracks. AI tools like Scenario and Iliad have emerged to create game assets, while platforms like Promethean enable the creation of entire virtual worlds. Even non-player characters (NPCs) can now be generated using products like Inworld, Charisma, and Convai.
Small businesses stand to gain significant advantages from generative AI tools. With over 32 million small businesses in the U.S., these tools can help automate tasks and streamline workflows. Examples include products like Harvey and Spellbook, which assist legal teams in automating tasks such as intake, research, and document drafting. Ecommerce, in particular, has emerged as a fruitful vertical for the integration of AI tools, as many online businesses can seamlessly incorporate them into various aspects of their operations.
Actionable Advice for Success:
- 1. Embrace Humility: Instead of fixating on proving yourself right, adopt a humble mindset that acknowledges the possibility of being wrong. By letting go of the need to be right, you open yourself up to new ideas and perspectives, leading to better outcomes.
- 2. Seek Diverse Perspectives: Surround yourself with individuals who challenge your beliefs and provide different viewpoints. This diversity of thought can help you see beyond your own biases and make more informed decisions.
- 3. Focus on Collaboration: Shift your focus from seeking credit and validation to fostering collaboration and teamwork. By working together towards a common goal, you can achieve better outcomes and create a positive work environment.
In conclusion, our obsession with proving ourselves right often leads us down the wrong path. To achieve the best outcome, we must prioritize being less wrong and embrace humility. AI, with its ability to personalize user experiences and augment human relationships, offers immense potential for transforming various industries. By integrating generative AI tools into workflows, businesses can streamline processes and enhance productivity. However, it is essential to remember that AI is a tool, and its success lies in our ability to leverage it effectively. With the right mindset and a focus on collaboration, we can navigate the complexities of being right and achieve success in an ever-evolving world.
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