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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

Last Impression is Lasting Impression

People don't remember how interactions started or most of what happened - they remember the most intense moment and how it ended

Decision Rule

Always engineer the ending of important interactions to be positive, respectful, and supportive, regardless of what happened during the middle

How It Works

Based on brain science showing memory consolidation focuses on peak emotional moments and endings rather than duration or beginnings

Failure Modes

Doesn't work if the entire interaction was genuinely harmful

Can seem manipulative if the positive ending feels disconnected from the interaction

May not overcome truly traumatic or intense negative experiences

Example Decision

After a difficult negotiation with some heated moments, end by saying: 'Regardless of where we land on this deal, I have tremendous respect for what you've built and will always be supportive of your success.' This becomes what they remember about you.