How to Make Great Things - College Info Geek

TL;DR

Success is a combination of hard work and luck, as showcased by the Equal-Odds Rule.

Transcript

Do you ever wonder what the ratio is between luck and hard work for people who have been wildly, wildly successful in their lives. What proportion of their success comes from being in the right place at the right time, and what comes from actual really hard work? I came across this guy's blog the other day. His name is Sebastian Marshall. He has a ... Read More

Key Insights

• 💦 Success is a result of both hard work and luck.
• 💦 Improving one's skills requires consistent practice and production of work.
• ❓ Perfectionism can hinder progress and should be overcome.
• 🦕 The Equal-Odds Rule applies to various fields, not just science.
• 📏 The 70/20/10 rule underscores the importance of quantity in achieving quality.
• 😣 Reflecting on future aspirations can serve as motivation to persevere.
• 💦 Aiming for one's best work is crucial for long-term success.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the Equal-Odds Rule?

The Equal-Odds Rule suggests that the impact of a scientist's publications does not differ statistically, and great publications are a result of trying enough times.

Q: How can one improve the quality of their work?

By consistently producing work and not aiming for perfectionism, individuals can bridge the gap between their taste and their ability to create.

Q: How does the 70/20/10 rule apply to success?

The 70/20/10 rule indicates that 70% of work is average, 20% is terrible, and 10% becomes highly successful, emphasizing the importance of consistent output.

Q: What should individuals focus on when evaluating their progress?

Individuals should think about the body of work they want to have in the future, as it serves as a motivation to persist and improve.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Equal-Odds Rule states that the average impact of a scientist's publications does not statistically differ, meaning both great and mediocre publications are created by the same scientist.

• To bridge the gap between taste and ability, one must consistently produce work and persevere through imperfections.

• The 70/20/10 rule suggests that 70% of work is average, 20% is terrible, and 10% rises to become successful.