Knowledge Marketplace
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

Wisdom as the Limiting Factor

Recognizing that good judgment and decision-making ability are more valuable and scarce than raw intelligence or hard work.

Decision Rule

When choosing between options, prioritize the choice that requires less intelligence/effort but better judgment over options that require more intelligence/effort but poor judgment.

How It Works

Good judgment acts as a multiplier on all other capabilities, while poor judgment can negate even exceptional intelligence and work ethic.

Failure Modes

Using this to justify lazy thinking or analysis

Overvaluing intuition without supporting evidence

Dismissing expertise in favor of 'common sense'

Example Decision

Instead of working 80 hours/week on multiple projects, choose to work 40 hours on the single highest-leverage opportunity that aligns with long-term goals.