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My First Million

My First Million

The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.

Back to Mental Models

Everyone is the Hero of Their Own Story

Every person, regardless of their actions, views themselves as acting righteously and justified in their behavior. This includes everyone from saints to serial killers.

Decision Rule

When in conflict, assume the other person believes they are acting correctly and try to understand their heroic narrative rather than convincing them they're wrong

How It Works

Our brains are wired to maintain positive self-image through rationalization. We naturally frame our story to make ourselves the protagonist facing justified challenges

Failure Modes

Trying to convince someone they're the villain

Assuming others act from malicious intent

Getting frustrated when logical arguments don't change minds

Forgetting that you also have this bias

Example Decision

Instead of arguing with a difficult client about why they're wrong, first understand what story they're telling themselves where they're the reasonable party being mistreated, then work within that narrative