Knowledge Marketplace
@zachpogrob

@zachpogrob

Obsession beats discipline - go all-in on your craft until you either die or get reborn.

Back to Mental Models

Focus on the Game (Not Outcomes)

Mastery and attraction - romantic and professional - come from obsessive focus on the craft itself, not on what the craft will get you. Paradoxically, ignoring outcomes produces better outcomes.

Decision Rule

When tempted to chase results (money, followers, relationships), redirect attention to the work itself. The picture of the player focused on the game, not the crowd, explains both success and magnetism.

How It Works

Outcome-focus creates anxiety and desperation, which repels opportunity. Process-focus creates flow and magnetism. People are attracted to those absorbed in something greater than approval-seeking.

Failure Modes

Ignoring outcomes entirely - feedback loops are still necessary

Pretending not to care while obsessing over metrics

Using 'focus on the game' to avoid accountability for results

Example Decision

Founder constantly checking metrics feels anxious. Applies model: delete analytics apps for a week, focus purely on making product better. Paradoxically, metrics improve because product quality improves.