Write Down Your Prediction Before Looking at the Result
Committing predictions to paper reveals where your intuition is calibrated and where it isn't.
19
Self-awareness
Be Suspicious of Thoughts That Make You Feel Superior
When a thought mainly makes you feel superior, it may be serving your ego more than your understanding.
11
Notice When You're Rationalizing vs. Actually Reasoning
If you already know the conclusion before examining the evidence, you are rationalizing, not reasoning.
22
It's Harder to Think Clearly About Things You Care About
Emotional investment bends your thinking — you need the most clarity precisely where it is hardest to achieve.
8
Your Identity Shouldn't Be Attached to Your Beliefs
Hold beliefs loosely — when ideas become identity, honest thinking becomes impossible.
9
Separate Observation from Interpretation
Most conflicts start when we treat interpretations as facts — learn to notice the gap.
8
"I Disagree" and "I Don't Understand" Feel the Same but Aren't
Before debating, make sure you truly understand the other position — disagreement and confusion feel alike.
15
Ask What Would Change Your Mind
Every honest belief has a condition for revision — if nothing could change your mind, it is dogma.
9
If You Can't Explain It Simply, You May Not Understand It Yet
The real test of understanding is the ability to explain something simply.
8
What You Choose Not to Do Is Also a Decision
Inaction is a choice too — every yes carries a hidden no, and every no carries a hidden yes.
9
Before Starting, Imagine This Already Failed — Then Ask Why
Assume the project has already failed and work backwards to find the blind spots optimism hides.
20
Ask What Problem This Solution Creates
Every solution creates new problems — the key is identifying the trade-offs before you commit.
8
One Example Is Not a Pattern
A single vivid story is not enough to establish a pattern — don't generalize from one case.
13
Good Thinking Often Feels Like Discomfort
When you feel resistance to an idea, that is often where the real thinking begins.
6
A Job Offer Is Not a Favor — Do Not Treat It Like One
A job offer is a mutual exchange of value — treat it as a business agreement, not a gift.
5
Flip the Perspective: What Would You Tell a Friend in This Situation?
The advice you'd give a friend in your situation is probably the right advice for you.
10
"It's Natural" Doesn't Mean It's Good
Natural is a description of origin, not a certificate of quality.
22
In Business, You Are Paid for Problems Solved, Not Hours Worked
Your professional value comes from the problems you solve and the results you produce, not the effort you put in.
13