Clarity Over Control, Steps Over Speeches
Human Work, Done Well
Big visions. Bigger pressure. And sometimes—confusing metrics, foggy expectations, and tool-driven distractions. This week, our top-performing notes pulled us back to center:
→ Focus on human strengths.
→ Measure what matters.
→ Trust process over perfection.
Here are the six ideas that sparked the most response:
1. Let AI Handle the Repetition
AI isn’t stealing jobs—it’s showing us what parts were never meant for humans in the first place.
→ Automate repetition. Free humans for nuance, judgment, and creativity.
2. Assume Competence First
Missed deadline? It’s probably not laziness—it’s blockers, ambiguity, or hidden complexity.
→ Ask: “What’s blocking you?” instead of “Why isn’t this done?”
3. Metrics Can Mislead
Test coverage ≠ safety. Story points ≠ value. LoC ≠ progress.
→ The hardest things to measure are often the ones that matter most.
4. Real Leadership Doesn’t Feel Like Applause
Alignment isn’t loud. It’s visible in footsteps, not feedback.
→ Systems that spread your principles quietly are worth more than charismatic speeches.
5. The Iteration Principle: Walk the Twenty-Five Miles
Massive launches sound heroic. But real progress comes from daily shipping, honest feedback, and course correction.
→ Small steps win: they’re faster, safer, and more motivating.
This Week’s Core Message
Progress isn’t made by staring at your vision. It’s made by walking, adjusting, and shipping—one step at a time.
Actionable Experiments to Try This Week
Find one repetitive task and automate it with AI: Free up time for something nuanced.
Replace judgment with curiosity: Ask your next "why late" question as "what's in the way?"
Shrink your planning horizon: What’s one deliverable your team could learn from by Friday?