Paul Graham advises aspiring startup founders to relentlessly pursue their own curiosity. He argues that the most successful startups are built by founders deeply passionate about solving a problem they personally experience. Instead of chasing trends or abstract notions of good ideas, Graham encourages builders to work on what truly interests them, even if it seems niche or insignificant. This genuine interest will fuel the sustained effort required to overcome the inevitable challenges of building a company. By focusing on their own curiosity and building something they themselves want, founders are more likely to create something truly valuable and novel.
In his essay entitled "What to Do," Paul Graham provides an extensive and meticulously detailed exploration of the multifaceted challenge of determining one's optimal career path, particularly within the realm of ambitious, impactful work. He commences by acknowledging the inherent difficulty of offering universally applicable advice, recognizing the idiosyncratic nature of individual passions and aptitudes. However, he posits that certain overarching principles can nonetheless illuminate the path toward fulfilling and significant endeavors.
Graham emphasizes the paramount importance of intrinsic motivation, urging readers to pursue work that genuinely captivates their interest, rather than succumbing to societal pressures or external validation. He argues that genuine enthusiasm acts as a powerful propellant, fueling sustained effort and fostering resilience in the face of inevitable obstacles. He further underscores the value of cultivating a deep understanding of oneself, recommending introspection and experimentation as vital tools for uncovering latent passions and identifying areas of genuine aptitude.
The essay then delves into the practicalities of pursuing one’s calling, highlighting the significant role of deliberate practice and skill acquisition. Graham advocates for a proactive approach, encouraging readers to actively seek out opportunities for growth and development, even if these opportunities appear initially modest or unglamorous. He cautions against the allure of premature optimization, stressing the importance of focusing on the process of learning and improvement, rather than fixating on immediate outcomes or external markers of success.
Furthermore, Graham explores the dynamic interplay between individual pursuits and the broader societal landscape. He encourages readers to identify areas where their unique skills and interests intersect with pressing societal needs, suggesting that this confluence offers the greatest potential for meaningful impact. He also emphasizes the importance of adaptability and a willingness to iterate, recognizing that career paths are rarely linear and often require adjustments and recalibrations along the way.
The essay concludes with a call to action, urging readers to embrace the inherent uncertainty of the future and to courageously pursue their chosen paths with unwavering determination. Graham emphasizes that the journey itself, with its inherent challenges and triumphs, is an integral part of the reward, and that the pursuit of meaningful work is a lifelong endeavor characterized by continuous learning, growth, and adaptation. He ultimately champions the notion that finding and pursuing one’s true calling is not merely a career decision, but rather a fundamental aspect of self-discovery and a pathway to a richer, more fulfilling life.
Summary of Comments ( 67 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43514969
HN users largely agree with Paul Graham's advice to focus on what truly compels you and to avoid prestigious but ultimately unsatisfying paths. Several commenters shared personal anecdotes of choosing passion projects over seemingly "better" opportunities, ultimately leading to greater fulfillment. Some highlighted the difficulty in identifying what truly interests you, suggesting exploration and experimentation as key. A few cautioned against blindly following passion without considering practicalities like financial stability, advocating for a balance between pursuing interests and ensuring a sustainable livelihood. The idea of "keeping your horizons narrow" to focus deeply resonated with many, although some interpreted this as focusing on a specific problem within a broader field rather than limiting oneself entirely. Finally, some users discussed the role of luck and privilege in being able to pursue unconventional paths.
The Hacker News post titled "What to Do," linking to Paul Graham's essay of the same name, has generated a fair number of comments discussing various aspects of the essay and its implications.
Several commenters delve into the idea of identifying what you truly enjoy doing, acknowledging the complexities and challenges involved. One commenter highlights the difficulty in discerning between genuine enjoyment and societal pressures or the pursuit of status. They point out that many activities might initially seem enjoyable due to external validation, but the underlying motivation might not be genuine passion. Another echoes this sentiment, adding that the search for what one wants to do can often be a distraction from simply doing things and discovering through action. The importance of experimentation and trying new things is emphasized, suggesting that passion isn't always found, but sometimes developed through experience.
Another thread of discussion centers around the financial realities and pressures that can influence career choices. Commenters acknowledge the privilege inherent in Graham's advice, recognizing that not everyone has the luxury of pursuing passion projects without considering financial stability. One commenter argues that focusing solely on what one loves can lead to a precarious financial situation, making it difficult to later pursue opportunities even within the field of interest. The discussion also touches on the practicality of identifying marketable skills and balancing passion with financial viability.
A few comments focus on the essay's target audience. Some believe Graham's advice is primarily aimed at young people or those early in their careers, suggesting that the flexibility and freedom to experiment are more readily available at those stages. Others discuss the challenges of applying this advice in different life circumstances, such as those with families or existing career commitments.
Some commenters offer more critical perspectives on Graham's essay. One points out the potential for self-deception when attempting to identify one's true calling, suggesting that people may rationalize their choices based on existing skills or perceived advantages. Another highlights the importance of understanding the market demand for chosen skills, warning against pursuing niche passions with limited career prospects. One commenter even suggests that the pursuit of "doing what you love" can sometimes be a form of procrastination, delaying necessary but less enjoyable tasks.
Finally, several commenters share personal anecdotes and experiences related to the topic. Some recount their journeys of discovering their passions, while others share stories of career changes and the challenges involved in pursuing non-traditional paths. These personal stories provide concrete examples and add a layer of practical insight to the broader discussion.