Action and effort mean nothing if they aren’t directed at the right problem. Without validation, we’re just spinning our tires. Exertion does not equal growth and effort does not measure progress. To extend further, trying our hardest won’t inherently produce satisfaction.
Before we throw ourselves at a project, we should first validate it. Will it be able to assess what we seek to learn? Will success be clearly identifiable, and in the same way, will failure be apparent? Without testing these questions, we can’t take real action.
If the fruits of our effort don’t solve the problems we face, what good do they provide? On the other hand, measured, calculated action—the kind that is slow but smooth—will lead us to the answers we hope to find, even if it might feel like we’re moving at a slower pace.
The objective should be to move further down the desired path in an intentional manner, not by hurling countless items and seeing what sticks to the wall.
“As you consider building your own minimum viable product, let this simple rule suffice: remove any feature, process, or effort that does not contribute directly to the learning you seek.”
— Eric Ries