Sammy Hath, expert in cultivating and destroying agency, discusses the importance of embracing failure for success. Topics include learning from negative results, exploring experiential learning, encouraging risk-taking, and breaking social scripts. Learn how to act with agency and unlearn the fear of being wrong.
Successful experiments with negative results are essential for learning agency.
Embracing failure and trying unconventional approaches are key to fostering agency.
Deep dives
Running Toward Fires as a Form of Competent Minionship
Running toward challenges and difficult situations can demonstrate high levels of competence and agency. Sammy shared the example of managing a chaotic group house where everything seemed to be in disarray. Despite the challenges, tackling such situations can be a valuable learning experience and showcase the ability to handle tough problems effectively.
Embracing Failure and Creativity to Build Agency
Embracing failure, trying unconventional approaches, and being open to making mistakes are essential aspects of fostering agency. By allowing room for failure and learning from unsuccessful attempts, individuals can gain valuable insights and improve their problem-solving skills. Creativity and resilience in the face of setbacks can lead to innovative solutions and personal growth.
Taking Asymmetric Bets and Deviating from Social Scripts
Taking asymmetric risks, where the potential payoff is significant compared to the downside, can be a strategic approach to decision-making. Deviating from social norms or scripts can lead to unexpected outcomes and opportunities for growth. While stepping outside of conventional boundaries can be beneficial, it is important to balance risk-taking with caution and preparedness to mitigate potential negative consequences.
Successful experiments with negative results are a vital part of learning to have agency. Discover how to fail for success on this episode of Troubleshooting Agile with our guest. Sammy Hath:
Links:
- https://hath.blog/posts/hire/
- https://hath.blog/posts/cultivating-destroying-agency/
- Failing for Success: https://failingforsuccess.substack.com
- Taleb’s Antifragile book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antifragile_(book)
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