Our focus today is Paul Graham's essay, 'How To Think For Yourself', in which he details some very useful ways to view different jobs and the power of independent thought within them. A foundational element of this thought piece is in the idea that certain professions require uniform thinking while others need you to think originally. By understanding this difference, we can begin to find the right place to house our particular psychological preferences. Tune in to hear all about it!

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

• [00:21] Before we jump into today’s interview, please rate, review, and subscribe to the Leveling Up Podcast!
• [00:29] A quick introduction to Paul Graham and Y Combinator.
• [01:18] Not everyone is the same — find your best way to learn.
• [01:50] Excerpts from Paul's essay, on originality and quality.
• [02:34] Zigging when others zag — stand out and offer value.
• [03:01] Questions to ask yourself; what type of work are you doing?
• [03:58] Picking the right type of work for yourself in order to excel.
• [04:40] Getting the right people in the right seat on your team.
• [05:08] Gauging your own independent-mindedness and filling in the gaps.
• [06:16] The people you surround yourself with will impact your view of yourself!
• [08:03] Dangers of the news and media and how this can detract from free thinking.
• [08:37] Learning how others think through biographical and historical media.
• [10:20] Fostering curiosity and and an open mind — this will lead to growth!

 

Resources From The Interview:

 

• Leveling Up

 

• Paul Graham
• How to Think for Yourself Essay
• Y Combinator
• Airbnb
• Twitch 
• Dropbox 
• EO
• YPO
• Vistage 

 

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