Learn to Think in Color

Does It Really Take 10,000 Hours to Become an Expert? Why mastery isn’t just about clocking hours, and what actually matters more The idea that it takes exactly 10,000 hours to become an expert has achieved near-mythical status. But does this number hold up under scrutiny, or is there more nuance to the path of mastery? High-Level Framing The notion of needing 10,000 hours to master a skill exploded into popular culture thanks to Malcolm Gladwell’s  Outliers . It’s catchy, memorable, and offers a clear benchmark. But in the years since, researchers and practitioners have both embraced and challenged this claim. While time on task matters, the quality of that time—along with factors like feedback, genetics, motivation, and deliberate practice—may matter even more. This article explores what the research really says, unpacks the myth of the 10,000-hour rule, and offers practical insights for anyone on the journey toward mastery. Where Did the 10,000-Hour Rule Come From? The 10,000-ho...

Why Do People Assign Value to the Process? The journey is where identity, meaning, and mastery are forged.   Framing the Question Why do people assign value to the process—even when the end result is all that others may see? From software engineering to gourmet cooking, it’s not just about what gets made, but how it’s made. The keyword here is  “value the process” , and understanding that value reveals how we grow, persist, and find meaning. This post explores both the  beauty  and the  limits  of process—and how it can either elevate or obscure our purpose. From Assembly Lines to Masterpieces Imagine two cups of coffee. One from a vending machine—quick, convenient, impersonal. The other from a barista who grinds beans, steams milk, and perfects the pour. They may cost the same, but one carries  story, skill, and intention . That’s what the process adds—depth. We value the process because it’s where we demonstrate care, craftsmanship, and commitment. I...

How can simple rules guide decisions in complex situations? February 20, 2025 | Critical Thinking, Decision Making, Flow State, Mental Models, Productivity, Question a Day Question a Day   Simplify the Chaos: How Simple Rules Lead to Smarter, Faster Decisions Decision-making in a chaotic, fast-paced world is like trying to untangle a string of holiday lights: frustrating, endless, and occasionally making you question your life choices. Complex situations demand clarity, but overthinking often gets in the way. Enter  simple rules —short, actionable guidelines that cut through complexity like a hot knife through butter (or, more realistically, like a decent pair of scissors through packing tape). These aren’t just survival tools; they’re strategies for thriving in the whirlwind of modern life. Let’s dive into why simple rules work, how they beat decision fatigue, and how you can craft your own to  make decisions faster and smarter—without breaking a sweat. What Are Simple R...

Can your boss just offer you the promotion? January 31, 2025 | Business Process, Feedback, Goal Setting, Leadership & Workplace Culture, Mentorship, Organizational Culture, Progress, Question a Day, Talent Question a Day Can Your Boss Directly Promote You? Here’s What You Need to Know The idea of your boss casually strolling over and saying,  “Congrats, you’re promoted!”  sounds amazing—but is it actually possible? Short answer:  Maybe. But in most workplaces, promotions  aren’t just a handshake deal —they involve  policies, approvals, and sometimes office politics. Let’s break down how promotions really work, what power your boss has, and how you can  increase your chances of moving up. 1. Can Your Boss Simply Promote You? It depends on the company.  In smaller or more flexible workplaces,  a boss may have direct authority to promote based on performance. But in  larger corporations, government jobs, or unionized roles, promotions  ...