(2018-06-06) Perell How To Maximize Serendipity

David Perell: How to Maximize Serendipity. Serendipity is a skill, which means it can be learned.

Writing is the best kind of networking. By making it easy for people to find you online, you’ll create a vehicle for serendipity

In my experience, the best networking happens indirectly. Meet people on the basketball court, in the gym, or at a meal instead of going to a networking event.

Host intimate events. I host a group in New York called Things We’ve Never Done Before. It’s a collection of passionate, hyper-curious individuals. Every now and then, we meet up for a day of fun, exercise and adventure

People want to be with healthy people. Eat healthy food, get enough sleep, and break a sweat every day. It’ll boost your mood and fuel your curiosity.

Work on many things at the same time. Surround yourself with eclectic people. Skip the standard destinations and travel to obscure places instead

“Avoid Boring People.” Three words, two meanings. The trope is a reminder to (1) stay away from people who aren’t interesting and (2) to be interesting and avoid boring people when you’re speaking with them.

Fancy hotels always have nice bathrooms. And if you're dressed well and walk confidently, you won’t be hassled for using the bathroom.

If you remember the "Hotel Bathroom Principle" you’ll always look sharp enough to capitalize on a serendipitous encounter

Lucky people move with life, not against it.

Lucky people bathe in the reverie of adventure

Relationships are like ambient music. Staying in touch with people isn't about being loud and aggressive. It's about subtle, regular connection.

Twitter DM is a Superpower

Go First

Talk to your crush. Send that email. Dish a compliment. The upside is limitless; the downside is just a sprinkle of embarrassment.

Tell the world what you want. Advertise your goals by painting a picture of your ideal future.

Paradoxically, big goals are sometimes easier to achieve than small ones. Big goals energize everybody — they’ll energize you and everybody are you. By communicating clear, ambitious goals, you’ll galvanize support and attention.

When you ask for favors, follow these three guidelines: (1) be specific and precise, (2) tell the other person why you’re asking for their help, and (3) after they’ve helped you, follow up with them thank them or provide an update.

Eugene Wei, a previous North Star podcast guest, has had a hugely successful career. When I asked him what he looks for, he said he looks for a giant wave (BandWagon). Then the gets on it, and trusts that the wave will spit him out somewhere in the right direction

Every industry has different ways of cultivating serendipity. In fashion, people cultivate serendipity by posting Instagrams in trendy garments. In cryptocurrencies, serendipity emerges through Telegrams and dinner events. This is why serendipity is a mindset. The optimal strategy varies from person to person, depending on their specific circumstances.