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Peter Thiel, the co-founder of PayPal and a visionary entrepreneur, offers a refreshing perspective on how to approach your career and future planning. Instead of getting caught up in the typical "ladder-climbing" mindset, Thiel encourages us to think of the future in three distinct horizons: short term, medium term, and long term.
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The Trap of Medium-Term Thinking
Most people fall into the habit of focusing on the medium term, which, according to Thiel, is all about how good a job or a degree looks on your resume. It’s the period where you’re not necessarily doing what you love, but rather what will make you look impressive in the eyes of others or position you for the next opportunity. This mindset can trap you in a cycle of endless preparation, where you’re always thinking about the next step rather than enjoying the present or aiming for something truly meaningful.
The Three Horizons Explained
Thiel suggests that to achieve a fulfilling career and life, you need to balance your focus across three different time horizons:
Short Term: Are you happy right now? Are you learning and growing in your current role? The short term is about finding joy and gaining new skills in what you’re doing today.
Medium Term: This is where most people tend to focus. It’s the stage where you think about how your current job or degree will help you in the next few years. While it’s important, Thiel warns against letting the medium term dominate your decision-making process.
Long Term: Are you working on something that matters? The long-term horizon is about pursuing projects and goals that have lasting significance. It’s where you think about the impact you want to have on the world and your legacy.
Recalibrating Your Focus
Thiel believes that in our society, the medium term is often overemphasized, while the short and long terms are underappreciated. To live a truly fulfilling life, he suggests recalibrating your focus. Instead of just chasing credentials and climbing the career ladder, pay more attention to your immediate happiness and long-term goals.
By doing so, you’ll not only find more satisfaction in your daily work, but you’ll also be more likely to contribute to something meaningful in the long run. After all, it’s not just about what looks good on your resume—it’s about building a life and career that you’re passionate about, both now and in the future.
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