Self Improvement Is Actually Addictive — If You Have the Right Frame of Mind

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Aug 11, 2023

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Self Improvement Is Actually Addictive — If You Have the Right Frame of Mind

Self-improvement is a lifelong journey that can bring immense rewards if approached with the right mindset. It goes beyond just physical improvements and encompasses the enhancement of our mental and spiritual well-being. As Friedrich Nietzsche once said, "He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how." This quote emphasizes the importance of having a powerful reason behind our efforts, goals, and habits. Without a strong motivation, our self-improvement endeavors may feel empty and devoid of meaning.

However, as we delve deeper into the quest for self-improvement, we must be wary of falling into the trap of constantly seeking external validation and chasing after fleeting highs. Dopamine, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, plays a significant role in our addiction to self-improvement. The more we seek validation from others or rely on external achievements to feel accomplished, the more we damage our dopamine receptors. This leads to a need for higher and higher levels of stimulation to experience the same level of satisfaction.

To truly harness the power of self-improvement, we must focus on self-defined improvement. Each individual has their own unique disposition, innate interests, and worldview. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is essential to tailor our self-improvement efforts to align with our individuality. As we grow older and gain new perspectives on life, our approach to self-improvement may evolve. The key is to keep improving and embracing change, as stagnation can lead to a metaphorical death of the soul.

In the realm of product management, there is a similar dichotomy between the 0→1 and 1→N phases. During the 0→1 phase, product managers strive to achieve product-market fit (PMF) by rapidly iterating through the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle. The focus is on making significant improvements, aiming for a 10X enhancement rather than settling for incremental gains of 10% or 20%. At this stage, it is crucial to prioritize the conviction that the product can be scaled in the 1→N phase, rather than obsessing over user numbers or immediate revenue generation.

Once PMF has been achieved, the 1→N phase comes into play, where the goal is to scale the product and achieve exponential growth. To accomplish this, it is necessary to further enhance the product's unique value proposition, ensuring that competitors cannot easily replicate it. Companies like Netflix invest heavily in content, while Amazon focuses on logistics, all in the pursuit of strengthening their value and maintaining a competitive edge.

In both self-improvement and product management, the journey is never-ending. Just as we must continually strive to better ourselves, products must constantly evolve to meet the changing needs and demands of their users. With this in mind, here are three actionable pieces of advice for those embarking on their self-improvement journey or managing a product:

  • 1. Reflect on your "why": Before committing to any self-improvement endeavor or product strategy, take the time to critically question your motivations. What is driving you? What are your core values and beliefs? Identifying a powerful reason will fuel your efforts and provide a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
  • 2. Embrace individuality: Recognize that self-improvement is a personal journey. Do not compare yourself to others or attempt to mimic their strategies. Instead, focus on discovering what works best for you and aligning your efforts with your unique strengths, interests, and aspirations.
  • 3. Embrace change and adaptability: Both in self-improvement and product management, adaptability is key. Embrace change as an opportunity for growth and constantly seek ways to evolve and innovate. Stagnation can hinder progress and limit potential.

In conclusion, self-improvement and product management share striking similarities. Both require a strong sense of purpose, a focus on individuality, and a willingness to adapt. By embracing the addictive nature of self-improvement, we can transform the journey into a fulfilling and rewarding addiction. Remember, self-improvement is not a destination but a continuous process that shapes us into the best versions of ourselves.

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