How to Predict the Future (Same as Ever by Morgan Housel)
Nov 10, 2023
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In this podcast, topics covered include how to predict the future, the importance of investing in preparedness, the power of storytelling in bestselling books, the dangers of rapid growth, maintaining a competitive advantage, and thought-provoking questions for introspection.
Focusing on improving customer desires that will always be present, like low prices and fast shipping, can lead to long-term success
Embracing nuance and uncertainty, while thinking in terms of probabilities, can lead to better decision-making
Deep dives
The Importance of Things That Never Change
Morgan Howzel's book, Same as Ever, explores the significance of things that remain constant. By understanding these unchanging elements, individuals can make better decisions and predictions about the future. For example, focusing on improving customer desires that will always be present, like low prices and fast shipping, can lead to long-term success. Howzel also discusses the idea that the most significant risks are the ones that are unforeseen and highlights the importance of being prepared rather than trying to predict every possible risk.
The Power of Stories and the Allure of Certainty
The book emphasizes the power of storytelling and how it can often overshadow accuracy. Howzel references popular authors like Yuval Noah Harari and Bill Bryson, explaining that their books became bestsellers not because they presented groundbreaking research, but because they crafted compelling narratives. People crave certainty and tend to favor simple, black-and-white answers, even if those answers are not entirely accurate. Howzel argues that embracing nuance and uncertainty, while thinking in terms of probabilities, can lead to better decision-making.
The Paradox of Stability and Risk
Howzel delves into the paradoxical relationship between stability and risk. He suggests that stability can lead to complacency and increasing vulnerability. Drawing from various examples, including biological research and economic theories, he argues that excessive stability can hinder progress and make individuals ill-prepared for unexpected events. Howzel encourages finding the balance between stability and adaptability to navigate the cyclical nature of life and avoid the potential downsides of excessive comfort.
The Slow Nature of Progress and the Value of Patience
The book highlights the importance of patience and the slow, gradual nature of progress. Howzel cautions against seeking shortcuts and quick wins, as true success often involves enduring the process and embracing the challenges that come with it. He stresses the significance of putting in the hard work, avoiding a desire for immediate gratification, and recognizing that success takes time. Howzel explains that good news and progress generally occur at a slower pace, whereas bad news tends to arise suddenly, highlighting the need for a balanced perspective and long-term thinking.
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Timestamps
[00:00] How to Predict the Future [01:57] Risk is What You Don’t See [03:53] People Want Certainty, not Accuracy [07:31] Storytelling is a Superpower [11:06] Calm Times Create Crazy Times [13:19] Don’t Go Too Fast [16:27] More Stress Is Good [17:56] Good News Happens Slowly [19:48] How to Be a Rational Optimist [21:16] Perfection Makes You Fragile [23:10] It’s Supposed to Be Hard [25:04] Don’t Quit When You’re Ahead [26:05] Questions to Ask Yourself
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