Inputs
Prompt 01.30
In a world saturated with trending topics, viral content, and algorithm-driven feeds, it’s easy to fall into the trap of consuming the same ideas as everyone else. But if we want to think originally, to see the world through a unique lens, we need to break free from the echo chambers. I have always been quite contrarian, but this past year in particular, I’ve made a conscious effort to seek out uncorrelated inputs:1 ideas, stories, and perspectives that exist outside the mainstream.
For me, this has meant diving into minor works by lesser-known authors, exploring older texts that have been overshadowed by modern classics, and flipping through obscure journals or niche publications. These sources often feel like hidden treasures, offering fresh insights and unexpected connections that challenge my assumptions and spark new ideas.
One of the most rewarding discoveries has been realizing how much wisdom lies in the overlooked or forgotten. An obscure essay from decades ago might offer a perspective that feels startlingly relevant today. A minor work by a famous author might reveal a side of their thinking that’s rarely discussed. These uncorrelated inputs have not only expanded my understanding but also helped me approach problems and creative challenges with a more open and original mindset.
In the year ahead, I want to deepen this practice. I plan to seek out even more diverse sources, perhaps exploring works from different cultures, time periods, or disciplines. I’d love to connect with people who have unconventional interests or expertise, learning from their unique vantage points. And I want to make space for these inputs to marinate, allowing them to influence my thinking in subtle but meaningful ways.
If you’re looking to think differently, I encourage you to step off the beaten path. Read something old, obscure, or unexpected. Engage with ideas that don’t fit neatly into the current conversation. You might just find that the most original thoughts come from the most unlikely places.
Here’s to a year of curiosity, exploration, and thinking outside the box. What uncorrelated inputs have inspired you lately? Let’s share and learn from each other’s discoveries.
The concept of ‘uncorrelated inputs’ adapts a principle from statistics and finance (where uncorrelated assets provide portfolio stability) to intellectual work. I think of it as a smart strategy in thinking and finance, and the protective mechanism works essentially the same way in both domains.