The Case for Sharing Your Work in Public: Going to Bed Smarter Than When You Woke Up

The Case for Sharing Your Work in Public: Going to Bed Smarter Than When You Woke Up

In today's society, there is a growing trend of people keeping their goals and intentions private. Some studies suggest that by sharing our goals, we may experience the same psychological satisfaction of accomplishing them without actually putting in the work. This can be attributed to the premature praise we often receive from others. However, other studies have shown that sharing our progress can actually be beneficial.

For instance, sharing your weight loss progress on platforms like Twitter can be a great way to stay motivated. By making your journey public, you hold yourself accountable and receive support from others who are going through similar experiences. In his book "Show Your Work," author Austin Kleon suggests becoming a documentarian of what you do. By sharing your work in public, you not only reflect on your progress but also plan your next steps more effectively.

Moreover, sharing your work in public allows you to take a more iterative approach. It ensures that what you're working on aligns with the needs you have identified. Great ideas often emerge from a network of information within a transparent community. When you share your ideas, you increase the likelihood of connecting the dots between your own ideas and those of others. This can lead to valuable insights and collaborations.

Working on an idea in isolation can stifle the creative process. Although it may feel uncomfortable at first, sharing your work in public on a regular basis will become easier over time. Many Glasp users have attested to this fact. Finding people who care about your work and connecting with them is crucial. This can be achieved by joining online groups or attending offline meetups. By engaging with like-minded individuals, you not only expand your network but also gain valuable feedback and support.

However, it's important to note that sharing your work in public should not derail you from actually doing the work. It should complement and enhance your workflow, leading to increased productivity and creativity. Once you develop the habit of sharing, it will almost feel strange to work in isolation. Glasp users have experienced this firsthand.

In line with the concept of going to bed smarter than when you woke up, reading plays a significant role. As Charlie Munger stated, "The best thing a human being can do is to help another human being know more." Great minds read a lot. Reading not only expands our knowledge but also sharpens our critical thinking skills. It allows us to hold informed opinions and make better decisions.

Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger are prime examples of individuals who prioritize continuous learning. Their success can be attributed, in part, to their commitment to reading and self-improvement. They spend a significant portion of their days reading to gain more knowledge. They don't rely on other people's opinions; they seek out facts and engage in deep thinking.

Investing in learning and personal growth yields long-term benefits. It is akin to the concept of compound interest. The more we learn, the more we can apply our knowledge and make informed decisions. Surrounding ourselves with individuals who challenge our ideas is another way to become smarter. This helps us avoid confirmation bias and encourages critical thinking.

To summarize, sharing your work in public and constantly seeking knowledge are two powerful ways to enhance your personal and professional development. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to incorporate:

1. Embrace the habit of sharing your work in public. Start by finding a platform or community that aligns with your interests and goals. Consistently share your progress, ideas, and insights. Engage with others and seek feedback.

2. Cultivate a reading habit. Set aside dedicated time each day to read books, articles, and research papers related to your field of interest. Take notes, reflect on the material, and apply the knowledge gained to your work and decision-making processes.

3. Surround yourself with diverse perspectives. Seek out individuals who challenge your ideas and provide constructive criticism. Engage in discussions and debates that push you to think deeper and broaden your understanding.

In conclusion, sharing your work in public and prioritizing continuous learning are essential ingredients for personal and professional growth. By connecting with others, expanding our knowledge, and challenging our perspectives, we can strive to go to bed smarter than when we woke up.