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The Costanza Principle: The secret to your best life?

MJ DeMarco

I followed the science; all I found was money.
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The other night I watched a basketball game on a major network, and I couldn't help but notice something during the commercial breaks: One after another, every advertisement was for a product or service that I would never buy.

Each commercial targeted the cultural majority, a Scripted populous seeking an escape, an easy button, or a temporary pleasure push.

Here are the commercials I had to suffer through:

A Coors Light beer commercial.
Sorry, I don't drink alcohol or participate in the Scripted theater that romanticizes its consumption.

An Indeed (job marketplace) commercial.
Sorry, I haven't had a job in decades much less prepared a resume.

A Meta commercial (formerly Facebook)
Sorry, I haven't logged into Facebook in months and I can't tell you what the commercial was about: I immediately tuned it out.

An Arby's commercial, aka, "We have the meats!"
Sorry, I've been eating plant-based for 5+ years and I don't eat greasy factory-farmed meat or processed fast food.

A Coke commercial, a feel-good propaganda piece featuring the sugar-ladened soft drink enjoyed by an energetic lady on roller skates.
Sorry, I don't assault my pancreas on a daily basis.

And finally, in the ultimate irony...

A pharmaceutical commercial for diabetes medications.
Now we know the rollerskating Coke-drinking lady was gliding to the pharmacy to fix all the garbage she consumed that was just advertised.

Altogether, this series of commercials highlighted the power of The Costanza Principle, inspired initially by the memorable Seinfeld character, George Costanza. In that episode, George gets tired of complying with cultural expectations and does the opposite, with meaningful results.

While this comedy skit was in jest, there is some hard truth in the idea that you can win your best life by doing the opposite of normal and what culture embraces.

The Costanza Principle challenges us to question conventional wisdom by analyzing the norms of our culture and deliberately choosing to do the opposite.

This counterintuitive approach to personal growth and decision-making can unlock new opportunities and results not enjoyed by the majority. In fact, Unscripted (my second book) could be renamed The Costanza Principle.

Get a job? No, start a business.
Start an SMMA? No, serve SMMAs.
Buy crypto like the masses? No, sell crypto.
Eat processed, junk, artificial food? No, eat natural, whole food.
Drink alcohol to take the edge off? No, how about meditation? Or exercise?
Taking a pill for your morbid obesity? No, how about changing your diet?

These commercials were a blunt-forced reminder of why I lead the dream life I do: I haven't fallen for the cultural bullshit that keeps you hog-tied to shitty jobs, burdensome debt, diet-induced sickness, and social media depression.

Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
How to Apply the Costanza Principle:
  1. Identify a situation or decision where you feel stuck or dissatisfied.
  2. Analyze the prevailing cultural norms, expectations, and conventional wisdom associated with that situation.
  3. Brainstorm alternative approaches that are the opposite of the norm.
  4. Experiment with these new strategies, remaining open to learning and adaptation.
  5. Assess the outcomes and adjust your course as needed, continuing to question and challenge the status quo.
By applying the Costanza Principle in your life, you can break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom and unlock new paths to success, happiness, and personal growth. When you challenge the boundaries of societal expectations, a 1% existence becomes possible.

Remember, 99% thinking will give you the 99% results emblematic of culture. And right now that is sickness, depression, poverty, and unhappiness. Think different to live different.
 
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socaldude

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Or my favorite, go to an MLB game where some 40 year old wearing another grown man’s sports jersey is yelling ad hominem attacks at a player while holding a beer and a hotdog.

In the meantime ads for casinos or private universities plague the stadium.

You would win in life if you just developed some recúsance for all this stupidity that plagues our modern society.
 

mikecarlooch

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@MJ DeMarco Great article - totally fascinating.

this short article by Jay Abraham relates heavily to what you're saying, I think you'll enjoy it:

 

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It's sort of hilarious how often doing the exact opposite of normal/mainstream benefits you.

Reminds me of when I imported my first product...

There were lists online of qualities that a 'good' product has:

- lightweight (easy shipping)
- small (easy shipping)
- low cost (easy to get started)

etc etc

I took the list and did the exact opposite of every point. Heavy, large, high cost items... it went rather well.
 

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i agreed til you lost me here

PS: by the way MJ how come I am still being moderated? My ratio is now above 1:1 which was a gripe you referred to initially, I have also been trying much harder to increase my post quality, may I request a recession of the restrictions hitherto placed placed on my being. I have learned my lesson as it it has evidently been quite cumbersome navigating these forums with such curtailments in place. This is my formal récusation I hope you respond to it with benevolence.
 
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heavy_industry

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Whenever I'm driving and listening to the radio, I get the same feeling every single time when the commercials start.

I am completely bewildered by the sheer amount of stupidity that is being promoted. Really makes me question a lot of things.

Every single commercial either makes me angry or literarily makes my jaw drop. Running ads on the radio costs a lot of money, which means that they have done plenty of market research, and concluded that this is what the target audience wants to hear. Which I find very concerning.

It's almost as if Fastlane and Slowlane are two parallel universes that coexist in the same reality, and sometimes collide with each other.


Quick fix: I turn off the F*cking radio, and start the @Kak podcast.
 

Kak

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I have always felt this way. Nicely done beautifully putting it to words. I have never naturally liked the things “you’re supposed to like.”

Drinking is also a big one for me. The lifestyles people like to build around mildly poisoning themselves is just ludicrous. I’m not talking about alcoholics either, I’m talking about people that embrace “the alcohol lifestyle.”

Sports are another for me, I don’t care about the Super Bowl, I don’t care about my Houston sports teams, and I don’t care about my college teams either. My life changes ZERO if they win and it also changes ZERO if they lose.

I know @MJ DeMarco has mentioned this before as well, but vacation travel as well. It’s still something I’m capable of looking forward to, but I have to chose carefully. I’m not someone that worships the ability to “travel the world.” I’ve traveled a lot of the world, and the world rarely lives up to unrealistic expectations.

I think it comes down to temporary escapes from life, whether mental (like alcohol or sports or Hollywood entertainment) or literal (like looking forward to your next vacation for a year). The world is selling temporary reprieves from shitty lives.

The part they don’t want you to know is your effort, instead of being temporary, can last. You can build a life you don’t need to escape from. Like anything, people continue to slam the easy button instead of the foundational work.
 
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MJ DeMarco

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Sports are another for me, I don’t care about the Super Bowl, I don’t care about my Houston sports teams, and I don’t care about my college teams either. My life changes ZERO if they win and it also changes ZERO if they lose.

I know @MJ DeMarco has mentioned this before as well, but vacation travel as well.

Yea, those are two I forgot. Sports I enjoy because it is the business of athletics, but I could care less about who wins or loses. The people praying and crying in the stands about their team is pathetic. As if God, or the universe, cares about your little college in Florida winning a basketball game.

Travel, same thing. I rarely travel as I'm not seeking to escape anything. My home is a private resort and I have ZERO reason to leave.

BTW, there is an incredible utility value in buying a home that you will love (unless your career forces you to travel) -- you use your home daily, 12+ hours a day, unlike a fancy car which you'll drive maybe an hour or two a day. In my case, I'm driving my car maybe a cumulative 2 hours per week.... the utility value (enjoyment factor vs ownership costs of time/money) of owning a Lambo or some ridiculous car is horrifically low.
 
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Kak

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Yea, those are two I forgot. Sports I enjoy because it is the business of athletics, but I could care less about who wins or loses. The people praying and crying in the stands about their team is pathetic. As if God, or the universe, cares about your little college in Florida winning a basketball game.

Travel, same thing. I rarely travel as I'm not seeking to escape anything. My home is a private resort and I have ZERO reason to leave.

BTW, there is an incredible utility value in buying a home that you will love (unless your career forces you to travel) -- you use your home daily, 12+ hours a day, unlike a fancy car which you'll drive maybe an hour or two a day. In my case, I'm driving my car maybe a cumulative 2 hours per week.... the utility value (enjoyment factor vs ownership costs of time/money) of owning a Lambo or some ridiculous car is horrifically low.
Now we are entering consumerism culture as well. Buy buy buy buy, you need this to be complete, you can’t live without that, work and earn to make sure you have enough money to buy the stuff we say you need!

My experience is that there’s tremendous value in examining YOUR OWN PERSONAL NEEDS, and not considering the expectations of others whatsoever in your consumption decisions.

Agreed on the home. It’s for you not for others. I don’t know about you, but I rarely have anyone but my family at my home. It’s not peacocking to have whatever makes your life there incredibly enjoyable.

For cars, I’ve had the hotshot Mercedes stuff, and more simple stuff. I’m going to put in an order for an Expedition. They’re enormously spacious and well appointed and do everything I need of a vehicle with zero judgement from people I meet with that my company is going to “gouge them.” The irony is, they’re not cheap.

I have always found the realtor driving the G wagon to meet a client to be an incredibly gauche move.

The world tells you that you should aspire to such things. Meh. I don’t aspire to be gauche. I honestly don’t like to draw attention to my resources. I’m also in industrials. It’s a Ford, Chevy and Ram world.
 
Last edited:

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I have always found the realtor driving the G wagon to meet a client to be an incredibly gauche move.
Reasons matter.
Those who do it for themselves, to enjoy the car, feel good, whatever… that’s a good reason to do it.
Those who do it because the other realtor just did it! Leased it over 15 years because they can’t afford monthly payments any other way… that’s as dumb as it gets. And no, as a client I’m not impressed with the realtor’s car!
 

MJ DeMarco

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I have always found the realtor driving the G wagon to meet a client to be an incredibly gauche move.

You mean like the landscaper who showed up to my house in his $130,000 F350 with $12,000 custom chrome rims? Yea, I didn't hire that guy.
 
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Fox

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May I request a recession of the restrictions hitherto placed on my being.

6e18e28ebfea48bec8a117448fb38386.jpeg

This is starting to sound like a Charles Dickens novel.

Your posts have been getting better though - good to see you stepping it up.
 

Antifragile

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You mean like the landscaper who showed up to my house in his $130,000 F350 with $12,000 custom chrome rims? Yea, I didn't hire that guy.
Why the hate on Johnny boy?
 

Fiza Hanif

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The other night I watched a basketball game on a major network, and I couldn't help but notice something during the commercial breaks: One after another, every advertisement was for a product or service that I would never buy.

Each commercial targeted the cultural majority, a Scripted populous seeking an escape, an easy button, or a temporary pleasure push.

Here are the commercials I had to suffer through:

A Coors Light beer commercial.
Sorry, I don't drink alcohol or participate in the Scripted theater that romanticizes its consumption.

An Indeed (job marketplace) commercial.
Sorry, I haven't had a job in decades much less prepared a resume.

A Meta commercial (formerly Facebook)
Sorry, I haven't logged into Facebook in months and I can't tell you what the commercial was about: I immediately tuned it out.

An Arby's commercial, aka, "We have the meats!"
Sorry, I've been eating plant-based for 5+ years and I don't eat greasy factory-farmed meat or processed fast food.

A Coke commercial, a feel-good propaganda piece featuring the sugar-ladened soft drink enjoyed by an energetic lady on roller skates.
Sorry, I don't assault my pancreas on a daily basis.

And finally, in the ultimate irony...

A pharmaceutical commercial for diabetes medications.
Now we know the rollerskating Coke-drinking lady was gliding to the pharmacy to fix all the garbage she consumed that was just advertised.

Altogether, this series of commercials highlighted the power of The Costanza Principle, inspired initially by the memorable Seinfeld character, George Costanza. In that episode, George gets tired of complying with cultural expectations and does the opposite, with meaningful results.

While this comedy skit was in jest, there is some hard truth in the idea that you can win your best life by doing the opposite of normal and what culture embraces.

The Costanza Principle challenges us to question conventional wisdom by analyzing the norms of our culture and deliberately choosing to do the opposite.

This counterintuitive approach to personal growth and decision-making can unlock new opportunities and results not enjoyed by the majority. In fact, Unscripted (my second book) could be renamed The Costanza Principle.

Get a job? No, start a business.
Start an SMMA? No, serve SMMAs.
Buy crypto like the masses? No, sell crypto.
Eat processed, junk, artificial food? No, eat natural, whole food.
Drink alcohol to take the edge off? No, how about meditation? Or exercise?
Taking a pill for your morbid obesity? No, how about changing your diet?

These commercials were a blunt-forced reminder of why I lead the dream life I do: I haven't fallen for the cultural bullshit that keeps you hog-tied to shitty jobs, burdensome debt, diet-induced sickness, and social media depression.

Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
How to Apply the Costanza Principle:
  1. Identify a situation or decision where you feel stuck or dissatisfied.
  2. Analyze the prevailing cultural norms, expectations, and conventional wisdom associated with that situation.
  3. Brainstorm alternative approaches that are the opposite of the norm.
  4. Experiment with these new strategies, remaining open to learning and adaptation.
  5. Assess the outcomes and adjust your course as needed, continuing to question and challenge the status quo.
By applying the Costanza Principle in your life, you can break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom and unlock new paths to success, happiness, and personal growth. When you challenge the boundaries of societal expectations, a 1% existence becomes possible.

Remember, 99% thinking will give you the 99% results emblematic of culture. And right now that is sickness, depression, poverty, and unhappiness. Think different to live different.
Okay! This post is the best thing I have came across in weeks. Thanks!! Superb as always.

I'll just add that in order to do so first you have to align your emotions with your actions. Otherwise, you will collapse every time you try something opposite to your current condition.
 
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Fomo

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The other night I watched a basketball game on a major network, and I couldn't help but notice something during the commercial breaks: One after another, every advertisement was for a product or service that I would never buy.

Each commercial targeted the cultural majority, a Scripted populous seeking an escape, an easy button, or a temporary pleasure push.

Here are the commercials I had to suffer through:

A Coors Light beer commercial.
Sorry, I don't drink alcohol or participate in the Scripted theater that romanticizes its consumption.

An Indeed (job marketplace) commercial.
Sorry, I haven't had a job in decades much less prepared a resume.

A Meta commercial (formerly Facebook)
Sorry, I haven't logged into Facebook in months and I can't tell you what the commercial was about: I immediately tuned it out.

An Arby's commercial, aka, "We have the meats!"
Sorry, I've been eating plant-based for 5+ years and I don't eat greasy factory-farmed meat or processed fast food.

A Coke commercial, a feel-good propaganda piece featuring the sugar-ladened soft drink enjoyed by an energetic lady on roller skates.
Sorry, I don't assault my pancreas on a daily basis.

And finally, in the ultimate irony...

A pharmaceutical commercial for diabetes medications.
Now we know the rollerskating Coke-drinking lady was gliding to the pharmacy to fix all the garbage she consumed that was just advertised.

Altogether, this series of commercials highlighted the power of The Costanza Principle, inspired initially by the memorable Seinfeld character, George Costanza. In that episode, George gets tired of complying with cultural expectations and does the opposite, with meaningful results.

While this comedy skit was in jest, there is some hard truth in the idea that you can win your best life by doing the opposite of normal and what culture embraces.

The Costanza Principle challenges us to question conventional wisdom by analyzing the norms of our culture and deliberately choosing to do the opposite.

This counterintuitive approach to personal growth and decision-making can unlock new opportunities and results not enjoyed by the majority. In fact, Unscripted (my second book) could be renamed The Costanza Principle.

Get a job? No, start a business.
Start an SMMA? No, serve SMMAs.
Buy crypto like the masses? No, sell crypto.
Eat processed, junk, artificial food? No, eat natural, whole food.
Drink alcohol to take the edge off? No, how about meditation? Or exercise?
Taking a pill for your morbid obesity? No, how about changing your diet?

These commercials were a blunt-forced reminder of why I lead the dream life I do: I haven't fallen for the cultural bullshit that keeps you hog-tied to shitty jobs, burdensome debt, diet-induced sickness, and social media depression.

Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
How to Apply the Costanza Principle:
  1. Identify a situation or decision where you feel stuck or dissatisfied.
  2. Analyze the prevailing cultural norms, expectations, and conventional wisdom associated with that situation.
  3. Brainstorm alternative approaches that are the opposite of the norm.
  4. Experiment with these new strategies, remaining open to learning and adaptation.
  5. Assess the outcomes and adjust your course as needed, continuing to question and challenge the status quo.
By applying the Costanza Principle in your life, you can break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom and unlock new paths to success, happiness, and personal growth. When you challenge the boundaries of societal expectations, a 1% existence becomes possible.

Remember, 99% thinking will give you the 99% results emblematic of culture. And right now that is sickness, depression, poverty, and unhappiness. Think different to live different.
This is a nice one had a lot of fun reading the post and comments.

I've always lived most of the time doing opposite to what I'm told to do especially when masses are doing the same thing. Over time it build a dissonance, got me thinking I'm i falling for a confirmatiory bias or I'm i truly hating what society and the people in authority over me are preaching?

Thanks @MJ DeMarco this helped answer some doubts in my head
 

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BTW, there is an incredible utility value in buying a home that you will love (unless your career forces you to travel) -- you use your home daily, 12+ hours a day, unlike a fancy car which you'll drive maybe an hour or two a day. In my case, I'm driving my car maybe a cumulative 2 hours per week.... the utility value (enjoyment factor vs ownership costs of time/money) of owning a Lambo or some ridiculous car is horrifically low.
Agree with this 100%! Having a place where you feel safe and enjoy spending time is hugely important, like you said, if you like where you are then there's no need to run away.
I'm watching some of your old YouTube videos (highly recommend BTW) and the shots with your pool and mountain view in the background, looks like an amazing place to be :)
 

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Unpopular opinion:

Another area where the Costanza Principle should be deployed is relationships.

Maybe I am to young or am not cabable of attracting the right person, but if you are young and want to build yourself a future that you want to live in you shouldn't focus on constantly hooking up or finding a significant other. One of my friends has a girlfriend, and he talks too her for like 5-6 hours everyday. If he doesn't talk he texts her. If he doesn't text her he thinks about her. The other friend hooks up with a different girl everyday, and spends like 90% of his mental capacity on getting laid. Getting laid a lot is hugely celebrated in my age group, but it takes up massive amounts of time and effort, and in the end is completely worthless and hedonistic.

I want to build up my business first, because if I don't get rich my life will be hell forever. After that I can look for a relationship.
 
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Kevin88660

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Unpopular opinion:

Another area where the Costanza Principle should be deployed is relationships.

Maybe I am to young or am not cabable of attracting the right person, but if you are young and want to build yourself a future that you want to live in you shouldn't focus on constantly hooking up or finding a significant other. One of my friends has a girlfriend, and he talks too her for like 5-6 hours everyday. If he doesn't talk he texts her. If he doesn't text her he thinks about her. The other friend hooks up with a different girl everyday, and spends like 90% of his mental capacity on getting laid. Getting laid a lot is hugely celebrated in my age group, but it takes up massive amounts of time and effort, and in the end is completely worthless and hedonistic.

I want to build up my business first, because if I don't get rich my life will be hell forever. After that I can look for a relationship.
Your friend who spends 5-6 hours on his gf will have his wake up call one day, when she questions him why he isn’t bringing home as much money as her best friends’ bf/husband.

Never spend too much times with your loved ones doing unproductive activities because at the end of the day it will only hurt you when they come and bite you for blaming you being poor/not successful.

If you had the money but no time, they will still grumble occasionally, but you are in a much better position.

Spend time on your clients. Spend money on family members and closed one. You will keep both.
 
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Last edited:

biophase

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Yea, those are two I forgot. Sports I enjoy because it is the business of athletics, but I could care less about who wins or loses. The people praying and crying in the stands about their team is pathetic. As if God, or the universe, cares about your little college in Florida winning a basketball game.
The only sporting event I may go to is the Super Bowl, or a Bears playoff game if that ever happens again. I’m not big into crowded events, but the Taylor Swift concert was awesome!

Travel, same thing. I rarely travel as I'm not seeking to escape anything. My home is a private resort and I have ZERO reason to leave.
With my recent purchase of a really nice home, I feel like I should have splurged on this about 5 years ago. It does make me want to stay home a lot more!

the utility value (enjoyment factor vs ownership costs of time/money) of owning a Lambo or some ridiculous car is horrifically low.
Yes like putting 3000 miles on a McLaren and selling it for $30k less after 2 years.
 

Coconutoperation

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It's sort of hilarious how often doing the exact opposite of normal/mainstream benefits you.

Reminds me of when I imported my first product...

There were lists online of qualities that a 'good' product has:

- lightweight (easy shipping)
- small (easy shipping)
- low cost (easy to get started)

etc etc

I took the list and did the exact opposite of every point. Heavy, large, high cost items... it went rather well.
This is really great! Eye-opening!
 

MJ DeMarco

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With my recent purchase of a really nice home, I feel like I should have splurged on this about 5 years ago. It does make me want to stay home a lot more!

I thought it was because you were always traveling, so it made sense.

However, even if you do travel a lot, the domicile where you live, eat, and sleep is where you spend most of your life. So it totally makes sense to spend the money to get what you want -- using the purchase 20-22 hours out of 24 hours of every single day is pretty damn good utility value.
 
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WJK

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The other night I watched a basketball game on a major network, and I couldn't help but notice something during the commercial breaks: One after another, every advertisement was for a product or service that I would never buy.

Each commercial targeted the cultural majority, a Scripted populous seeking an escape, an easy button, or a temporary pleasure push.

Here are the commercials I had to suffer through:

A Coors Light beer commercial.
Sorry, I don't drink alcohol or participate in the Scripted theater that romanticizes its consumption.

An Indeed (job marketplace) commercial.
Sorry, I haven't had a job in decades much less prepared a resume.

A Meta commercial (formerly Facebook)
Sorry, I haven't logged into Facebook in months and I can't tell you what the commercial was about: I immediately tuned it out.

An Arby's commercial, aka, "We have the meats!"
Sorry, I've been eating plant-based for 5+ years and I don't eat greasy factory-farmed meat or processed fast food.

A Coke commercial, a feel-good propaganda piece featuring the sugar-ladened soft drink enjoyed by an energetic lady on roller skates.
Sorry, I don't assault my pancreas on a daily basis.

And finally, in the ultimate irony...

A pharmaceutical commercial for diabetes medications.
Now we know the rollerskating Coke-drinking lady was gliding to the pharmacy to fix all the garbage she consumed that was just advertised.

Altogether, this series of commercials highlighted the power of The Costanza Principle, inspired initially by the memorable Seinfeld character, George Costanza. In that episode, George gets tired of complying with cultural expectations and does the opposite, with meaningful results.

While this comedy skit was in jest, there is some hard truth in the idea that you can win your best life by doing the opposite of normal and what culture embraces.

The Costanza Principle challenges us to question conventional wisdom by analyzing the norms of our culture and deliberately choosing to do the opposite.

This counterintuitive approach to personal growth and decision-making can unlock new opportunities and results not enjoyed by the majority. In fact, Unscripted (my second book) could be renamed The Costanza Principle.

Get a job? No, start a business.
Start an SMMA? No, serve SMMAs.
Buy crypto like the masses? No, sell crypto.
Eat processed, junk, artificial food? No, eat natural, whole food.
Drink alcohol to take the edge off? No, how about meditation? Or exercise?
Taking a pill for your morbid obesity? No, how about changing your diet?

These commercials were a blunt-forced reminder of why I lead the dream life I do: I haven't fallen for the cultural bullshit that keeps you hog-tied to shitty jobs, burdensome debt, diet-induced sickness, and social media depression.

Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
How to Apply the Costanza Principle:
  1. Identify a situation or decision where you feel stuck or dissatisfied.
  2. Analyze the prevailing cultural norms, expectations, and conventional wisdom associated with that situation.
  3. Brainstorm alternative approaches that are the opposite of the norm.
  4. Experiment with these new strategies, remaining open to learning and adaptation.
  5. Assess the outcomes and adjust your course as needed, continuing to question and challenge the status quo.
By applying the Costanza Principle in your life, you can break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom and unlock new paths to success, happiness, and personal growth. When you challenge the boundaries of societal expectations, a 1% existence becomes possible.

Remember, 99% thinking will give you the 99% results emblematic of culture. And right now that is sickness, depression, poverty, and unhappiness. Think different to live different.
Running contrary to the norm is powerful!
 

Kevin88660

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The other night I watched a basketball game on a major network, and I couldn't help but notice something during the commercial breaks: One after another, every advertisement was for a product or service that I would never buy.

Each commercial targeted the cultural majority, a Scripted populous seeking an escape, an easy button, or a temporary pleasure push.

Here are the commercials I had to suffer through:

A Coors Light beer commercial.
Sorry, I don't drink alcohol or participate in the Scripted theater that romanticizes its consumption.

An Indeed (job marketplace) commercial.
Sorry, I haven't had a job in decades much less prepared a resume.

A Meta commercial (formerly Facebook)
Sorry, I haven't logged into Facebook in months and I can't tell you what the commercial was about: I immediately tuned it out.

An Arby's commercial, aka, "We have the meats!"
Sorry, I've been eating plant-based for 5+ years and I don't eat greasy factory-farmed meat or processed fast food.

A Coke commercial, a feel-good propaganda piece featuring the sugar-ladened soft drink enjoyed by an energetic lady on roller skates.
Sorry, I don't assault my pancreas on a daily basis.

And finally, in the ultimate irony...

A pharmaceutical commercial for diabetes medications.
Now we know the rollerskating Coke-drinking lady was gliding to the pharmacy to fix all the garbage she consumed that was just advertised.

Altogether, this series of commercials highlighted the power of The Costanza Principle, inspired initially by the memorable Seinfeld character, George Costanza. In that episode, George gets tired of complying with cultural expectations and does the opposite, with meaningful results.

While this comedy skit was in jest, there is some hard truth in the idea that you can win your best life by doing the opposite of normal and what culture embraces.

The Costanza Principle challenges us to question conventional wisdom by analyzing the norms of our culture and deliberately choosing to do the opposite.

This counterintuitive approach to personal growth and decision-making can unlock new opportunities and results not enjoyed by the majority. In fact, Unscripted (my second book) could be renamed The Costanza Principle.

Get a job? No, start a business.
Start an SMMA? No, serve SMMAs.
Buy crypto like the masses? No, sell crypto.
Eat processed, junk, artificial food? No, eat natural, whole food.
Drink alcohol to take the edge off? No, how about meditation? Or exercise?
Taking a pill for your morbid obesity? No, how about changing your diet?

These commercials were a blunt-forced reminder of why I lead the dream life I do: I haven't fallen for the cultural bullshit that keeps you hog-tied to shitty jobs, burdensome debt, diet-induced sickness, and social media depression.

Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
How to Apply the Costanza Principle:
  1. Identify a situation or decision where you feel stuck or dissatisfied.
  2. Analyze the prevailing cultural norms, expectations, and conventional wisdom associated with that situation.
  3. Brainstorm alternative approaches that are the opposite of the norm.
  4. Experiment with these new strategies, remaining open to learning and adaptation.
  5. Assess the outcomes and adjust your course as needed, continuing to question and challenge the status quo.
By applying the Costanza Principle in your life, you can break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom and unlock new paths to success, happiness, and personal growth. When you challenge the boundaries of societal expectations, a 1% existence becomes possible.

Remember, 99% thinking will give you the 99% results emblematic of culture. And right now that is sickness, depression, poverty, and unhappiness. Think different to live different.
I think the internet enables sub-cultures and communities to form their own “norm” that sometimes it is hard to tell what the norm is.

As someone who reads on content related to diets and fitness I almost think that some form of fasting is the norm. I still stick to old school calories counting.
 

Andy Black

Help people. Get paid. Help more people.
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I occasionally accept calls from Google Ads reps and recommend others do too. It's partly to find out what new features are coming down the track, but mostly to find out what advice they're giving everyone.

I tell people to consider doing the opposite of what Google advise everyone to do. Not just because I don't trust Google, but because I think going against the grain means less competition and more opportunities.
 
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DW85014

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Here are 4 simple ideas which frame the Costanza Principle:
  1. Questioning Cultural Norms: Be critical of societal norms, conventional beliefs, and expectations. By challenging the status quo, you can uncover hidden advantages, gain unique perspectives, and create innovative solutions to challenges others may overlook. You can also identify areas where you can diverge from the crowd, potentially leading to greater success and fulfillment. 1% thinking will get you 1% results.
  2. Embrace the Opposites: By choosing to do the opposite of what is considered "mainstream" or "expected," you can uncover novel ways of thinking and acting. This can lead to creative solutions, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth.
  3. Experimentation and Adaptation: The Costanza Principle is not a one-size-fits-all formula. Instead, it is a mindset that encourages you to experiment with alternative approaches and be adaptable, using the Act Assess Adjust model from Unscripted and The Great Rat Race Escape. We must be open to learning from our experiences, refining our strategies, and adjusting our course as needed.
  4. Developing Personal Resilience: And finally, by deliberately choosing to do the opposite of what is expected, we may encounter resistance or skepticism from others. The Costanza Principle creates mental toughness. It teaches you to develop the resilience and confidence necessary to forge your own paths, even in the face of adversity.
I can see why this is GOLD - great advice.
 

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