Mastering The Long Game
In a long-term game, everybody aims to make each other rich.
In a short-term game, everybody aims to make themselves rich.
In a short-term game, success is more about luck than skill, and we all know someone who got lucky. It happens all the time, and there is nothing wrong with it.
But chances are you won’t be lucky.
If you want to reach your goals, your odds are much better if you focus on playing a long-term game. So how does one think long-term and best position themselves for success over the course of their career?
→ Stay in the same industry or vertical
By focusing on a specific industry or vertical, you build deep expertise and understanding of the market dynamics. This allows you to make informed decisions, build valuable relationships, and spot long-term opportunities others may miss.
→ Work with like-minded people to build trust
Surround yourself with individuals who share your vision and values. Building trust with like-minded people not only fosters collaboration but also opens doors to new opportunities and resources that can accelerate your progress toward your goals.
→ Commit to a specific geographic region but be open to the world
Build a strong presence and network in a specific geographic region. This lets you tap into local resources, leverage local knowledge, and establish a reputation distinguishing you from competitors. And this matters even more outside of the SF Bay Area.
→ Push through even in hard times
When faced with challenges or setbacks, the ability to stay focused, adapt, and keep pushing forward is essential. Short-term thinkers give up when things get tough, but those who play the long game are willing to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
→ Set a big goal that’s not financial
Financial success is important. But it’s not the most important. Playing the long game requires one to define a meaningful and inspiring mission that goes beyond profit, such as making a positive impact on society, advancing technology, or improving other people's lives.
→ Stick with a discipline you genuinely like
Passion and genuine interest in your chosen discipline are vital for long-term success. When you enjoy what you do, it becomes easier to put in the necessary effort, continuously improve, and maintain the enthusiasm needed to sustain long-term growth.
The long game is about building a foundation for lasting success.
Warren Buffett is probably the best example of someone who has played the long game and has done so for a long time. It took him 20 years from when he acquired Berkshire Hathaway until he became a billionaire. While it’s an incredible achievement, it’s hardly an overnight success.
While luck can contribute to sporadic success stories, it is ultimately the choices made over time that shape our achievements.
