The Pursuit of Great Work (and the Power of LinkedIn)
In today's digital era, a mere scroll on LinkedIn can present a treasure trove of insights, like this enlightening article by David Senra referencing Y Combinator 's Paul Graham's essay, "How to Do Great Work ." This serendipitous find is more than a testament to the power of modern platforms. It's a reflection of the untapped potential residing within these platforms and, more broadly, the overarching journey towards doing impactful work.
We live in an age where information and knowledge are abundant. Every swipe, click, or tap opens up a world of possibilities. But what distinguishes the curious mind from the casual browser? The willingness to dive deep, to follow one's curiosity, and to chase passion, ambition, and genuine interest.
Platforms like LinkedIn are more than just networking tools. They're gateways to worlds of insight, knowledge, and opportunity. By paying attention, by truly immersing ourselves in these platforms, we open ourselves to countless avenues. From potential job opportunities to the seed of a groundbreaking startup idea, the potential is limitless.
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Power Tip: Don't just Infinite Scroll. Stop every now and then, smell the flowers and pay attention. You never know what you might find.
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Paul Graham's essay is a clarion call to follow one's curiosity as a guiding light. It's not just about doing what one loves; it's about nurturing that spark of interest, fostering it, and letting it grow into a blazing trail of innovation and breakthroughs. Graham's message isn't novel. Many before him have championed the cause of passionate work. But in our age of distractions, his words resonate more than ever.
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The emphasis on curiosity as both an "engine and rudder" stands out. In an age of information overflow, where every other article claims to be the 'next big thing,' genuine curiosity is our compass. It guides us to discern the valuable from the noise, the transformative from the transient.
Moreover, Graham's take on being prolific and the close relationship between curiosity and originality brings forth a vital insight. Originality doesn't always mean reinventing the wheel. Sometimes, it's about asking the unasked, delving into the "why not" of things, and finding the uncharted path. The insights derived from such pursuits are often the most transformative, laying the groundwork for revolutions.
The mention of "Ikigai" introduces a holistic perspective to this quest. It's not merely about chasing passion blindly but seeking intersections where passion meets proficiency, demand, and remuneration. This balanced approach ensures that our pursuits are not just personally fulfilling but also valuable to society at large.
In the corporate hustle, side hustles often carry a hint of hobbyism. Yet they should be viewed as vehicles of diversification, akin to CEOs sitting on multiple boards. They're not just passion projects but potential revenue streams, ensuring both financial security and professional growth.
It's not just about finding that one golden goose but nurturing a farm of potential golden geese. This philosophy resonates deeply in today's gig economy, where adaptability, diversification, and continuous learning reign supreme.
In conclusion, while the landscape of work, passion, and curiosity is vast and ever-evolving, certain truths remain. Curiosity is our North Star. Passion is our fuel. And platforms like LinkedIn are the bridges that connect us to untapped worlds of opportunity. The journey towards doing great work is continuous, filled with trials, triumphs, and transformations. But with a curious mind, a passionate heart, and the right platforms, the path to greatness is not just conceivable but achievable.
Managing Director at Moore News Limited
1yInteresting stuff. And that's according to a former 'Across the Sound' listener!!
Partner, DHR Global Executive Search | Board Member
1yLove the ikigai mention; everything needs to have a purpose, an intention