Quitting Time

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the importance of quitting and not just persevering, arguing that quitting is a necessary and underrated virtue for success. It explores how the narrative of "never give up" is overrated, and how the most successful people often have a history of quitting and trying new things.

🙋 Q&A

[01] The Importance of Quitting

1. What are the key points made about the importance of quitting?

• Quitting is a necessity and a virtue, not just the opposite of persevering
• The most successful people often have a history of quitting jobs, homes, friends, and investments to try new things
• Quitting allows you to learn from mistakes and move on to new opportunities
• Perseverance is important, but it needs to be balanced with the willingness to quit and try something new

2. What examples are provided to illustrate the importance of quitting?

• Entrepreneurs like James Dyson and Jack Ma who persisted through many failures before finding success
• The author's own experience of quitting businesses that didn't work out, which ultimately led to greater success

3. How does the article argue against the common narrative of "never give up"?

• The "never give up" narrative can be problematic, as it can lead people to stubbornly pursue unrealistic dreams
• The article suggests that being open to quitting and trying new things is often a better path to success

[02] Overcoming the Fear of Quitting

1. What insights does the article provide about overcoming the fear of quitting?

• Sunk cost fallacy - people have a hard time walking away from investments of time and money, even when it's the best thing to do
• The article encourages readers to be gracious in failure and not feel the need to excuse or blame others

2. How does the article suggest people should approach big decisions about quitting?

• The article recommends seeking input from a "High Counsel" of trusted advisors before making major decisions
• It also emphasizes the importance of not being paralyzed by fear of failure or embarrassment

3. What broader perspective does the article offer to help overcome the fear of quitting?

• The article cites Carl Sagan's insight about the insignificance of individual successes and failures in the grand scheme of the universe
• This is meant to help readers put their fears and failures into perspective and not let them hold them back from pursuing a better life