A Smart Bear: On Introspection

What creates a fulfilling existence? Exploration leads to a framework I’ve used for years for myself and the people around me. I hope it helps you too. —December 2022 | 2,800 words.

Not “enabling constraints”, not “weaknesses”, not even “strengths”. The concept of a “Pivot Point” grapples with the same reality, but more constructive and useful. —September 2024 | 4,400 words.

Beware of advice that tries to change who you are. True wisdom guides you to a better version of yourself. —December 2008 | 2,100 words.

Everything about a startup changes over time. The few things that don’t, are its essence. The voyage is meaningless, unless you decide what those things are. —August 2014 | 1,000 words.

People love and forgive humans, not corporations. Expose your humanity to earn loyal, happy customers, even when you mess up. —June 2010 | 1,100 words.

In America we’re trained that all copying is bad; of course plagiarism is, but perhaps we’re throwing the baby out with the bathwater. —February 2012 | 900 words.

“You’re so lucky.” That’s true. There’s also decades of sacrifice, emotional turmoil, long hours, perseverance. So… is it lucky? —March 2009 | 1,100 words.

Our emotional baggage and experience make us unique, but also serve as blinders. —January 2012 | 1,000 words.

Comparing yourself to other startups? Focus on yourself instead. —December 2014 | 700 words.

Applying Pascal’s Wager: Humility wins, arrogance loses. —July 2012 | 900 words.

Expertise hinders learning. Learn from these examples, so that you leverage your expertise, but aren’t blinded by it. Insights come from curiosity, not certainty. —August 2011 | 1,300 words.

We’re told “be yourself” to seek happiness and success. But what if “being yourself” also means striving to become better? What is “yourself?” —August 2011 | 1,600 words.

Nothing clarifies things quite like a hyperactive, all-knowing, all-seeing, real asshole of a devil’s advocate beating the living crap out of you. —February 2010 | 1,300 words.