I subscribe to a handful of views that are both unpopular and uncomfortably true about life and the world. Many of these revolve around the misleading assurances we give people about achieving significant ambitions.
Here's a hard truth: achieving anything substantial—be it founding a successful startup, writing a novel, or transforming one's physical health—requires elements that can only be described as extreme. While tales of fortuitous success are enchanting, they are, in fact, the exception rather than the rule. It’s imprudent to base one’s strategy on luck.
The reliable ingredients for substantial achievements are less glamorous but more effective: willpower, endurance, grit, and tenacity. These qualities underpin the day-to-day labor that transforms lofty aspirations into tangible results.
Consider a seemingly simple goal like getting in shape, a common New Year’s resolution. For minor improvements, such as losing a few pounds or slightly increasing one’s strength, moderate adjustments may suffice. However, for those aiming to fundamentally change their body composition, run a marathon, or achieve above-average fitness, moderate efforts will not be adequate.
The prevalent advice of moderation seems well-intentioned but sets many up for failure. It underestimates the scale of effort required for dramatic changes. People are often disillusioned when modest gym sessions and slight dietary tweaks don’t yield radical results.
Moreover, embracing extreme dedication is often easier than the nebulous path of moderation. If your goal is significant, your commitment must match it. This may mean forgoing desserts for a while or spending extra hours each week at the gym—choices that some might label as 'restrictive' or 'obsessive.'
Critics might argue that such dedication leads to imbalance or that it sacrifices too much of life's other pleasures. However, greatness in any field often requires such trade-offs. Those who achieve extraordinary levels are usually those who are willing to push beyond average efforts and embrace the intensity of their pursuits.
For instance, I enjoy painting, drawing, and writing, but I don't aspire to reach the pinnacle in these areas. Thus, I approach them casually, as hobbies. Yet, in domains where I seek excellence—like my professional work or personal fitness—I shun moderation. I know from experience that only intense, focused effort leads to significant progress.
This isn't merely a personal opinion but a broader truth about human achievement: moderation often leads to mediocrity. If you are content with your current state, moderation is your ally. But if you aspire to radically transform any aspect of your life, you must embrace a more concentrated, relentless effort.
Why you should start a martial art too, ping me if you’re in Barcelona and want to roll.
A lot of happiness comes down to your willingness to cross the moat of low status between you and doing things you want to do.