The Path to Great Work: Embracing Curiosity, Taking Action, and Learning in Public

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Sep 21, 2023

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The Path to Great Work: Embracing Curiosity, Taking Action, and Learning in Public

Introduction:

Doing great work is a goal that many aspire to achieve. It requires a combination of passion, curiosity, and perseverance. In this article, we will explore the steps to doing great work, including how to choose the right project, the importance of curiosity, and the benefits of learning in public. By embracing these principles, you can unlock your full potential and make a lasting impact.

1. Embrace Your Curiosity:

One of the first steps to doing great work is to follow your curiosity. What are you excessively curious about? What sparks your interest to a degree that would bore most other people? These are the areas you should focus on. Many discoveries and breakthroughs have come from asking questions about things that everyone else took for granted. Boldly chase outlier ideas, even if others aren't interested in them. Your unique perspective and expertise can uncover hidden opportunities that others overlook.

2. Find Your Passion:

Interest is a powerful motivator. When you're genuinely interested in something, it drives you to work harder and explore new possibilities. The three most powerful motives are curiosity, delight, and the desire to do something impressive. Sometimes, these motives converge, creating a powerful combination that fuels great work. Ambition can come in two forms, one that precedes interest and one that grows out of it. Finding the balance between the two can be challenging but essential for deciding what to work on.

3. Take Action and Learn from Failure:

When it comes to figuring out what to work on, you're on your own. The key is to make yourself a big target for luck by being curious, trying new things, meeting people, reading books, and asking questions. Take the first step and start working on a project, even if you're unsure. Sometimes, the best ideas come from simply getting started. Remember that failure is a natural part of the process. Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities and don't be afraid to pivot or adjust your course. Finish what you start, as often the best work happens in what was meant to be the final stage.

4. Learn in Public:

Learning in public is a powerful way to accelerate your growth and tap into the collective intelligence of your network. Rather than seeking validation, the goal should be to share your progress and tap into constructive feedback loops. Building in public allows you to track your learning progress and receive valuable insights from others. Keep a public log of what you build, and don't be afraid to share your work, even in its early stages. Remember the quote, "If you are not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you've launched too late." Embrace vulnerability and use it as an opportunity for growth.

Conclusion:

Doing great work requires a combination of passion, curiosity, and action. By following your natural aptitudes, pursuing your interests, and embracing curiosity, you can unlock your full potential. Take the first step, learn from failure, and don't be afraid to share your progress with others. By learning in public, you can tap into the collective intelligence of your network and create valuable feedback loops. Remember, great work happens when you consistently focus on something you're genuinely interested in. So, embrace curiosity, take action, and make a lasting impact through your work.