How to do Great Work - Read & Written By Paul Graham (AI Paul Graham)

Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Do Great Work

Step 1: Choose the Right Work

• Identify something you have a natural aptitude for, a deep interest in, and that offers the potential for great work.
• Explore different fields and be open to new possibilities, even those that may not exist yet.
• Experiment with various projects to discover what excites you and aligns with your ambitions.

Step 2: Work Hard and Stay Curious

• Develop a habit of working on your own projects and pursuing outlier ideas.
• Embrace curiosity, delight, and the desire to do something impressive as powerful motivators.
• Be excessively curious and open to asking questions that challenge conventional wisdom.

Step 3: Learn and Notice Gaps

• Dive deep into a subject to reach the frontiers of knowledge.
• Stay alert to gaps in knowledge and be willing to explore unconventional answers.
• Embrace the tincture of strangeness in great work and be open to pursuing outlier ideas.

Step 4: Collaborate and Cultivate Morale

• Surround yourself with colleagues who inspire you and contribute positively to your work.
• Collaborate with like-minded individuals and seek out the best colleagues to enhance your projects.
• Protect and nurture your morale by viewing setbacks as part of the process and maintaining a positive outlook.

Step 5: Focus on Originality and Persistence

• Cultivate originality by exploring new ideas and seeking inspiration from various fields.
• Persist in your pursuits, starting small and evolving your projects over time.
• Embrace setbacks as part of the journey and avoid letting them demoralize you.

Step 6: Stay Energized and Engage with Your Audience

• Maintain your energy levels through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.
• Engage with your audience, seek feedback, and focus on building a dedicated following.
• Avoid letting intermediaries come between you and your audience to maintain a direct connection.

Step 7: Embrace Uncertainty and Continuous Learning

• Embrace uncertainty and maintain a sense of curiosity to drive original thinking.
• Pursue projects that challenge you and push the boundaries of your knowledge and skills.
• Continuously learn, explore new ideas, and stay open to unconventional solutions.

By following these steps and incorporating the insights shared in the video, you can enhance your approach to work, foster creativity, and strive towards achieving great work in your chosen field.