Unpleasant Advice That Works

“During my eight years in college, I spent many thousands of hours reading about economics, politics, and philosophy. Since high school, I’ve spent over ten thousand hours writing. When young people ask me ‘How can I be like you?’ my first thought is, do ten times as much.

“Ten times as much of what, exactly? The answer is usually: Whatever you already think the crucial ingredient is. ‘Why can’t I get ahead in my career? I strive to study and emulate my role models.’ Great idea. You just need to multiply your effort by a factor of ten. ‘How can I save my marriage? I’m really trying to make my spouse happy.’ Again, a great idea. You just need to multiply your effort by a factor of ten.” – economist Bryan Caplan via Scott Young’s blog, 9/27/23