Most people set goals by asking:
But here’s the thing: Success isn’t just about doing the right things. It’s about avoiding the wrong ones.
Instead of asking, “How can I succeed?” ask: 🚫 “How do I guarantee failure?”
By identifying what will hold you back, you shortcut your path to success.
Investor Charlie Munger put it best:
All I want to know is where I’m going to die, so I never go there.
You can apply this to everything.
Avoid the obvious pitfalls, and success becomes almost inevitable.
1️⃣ Write Down Your Goal
Get specific. Instead of vague dreams like “be successful,” try:
🚀 “I want to build a six-figure business.”
🏋️ “I want to lose 15 pounds in 4 months.”
📚 “I want to read 30 books this year.”
2️⃣ Invert It: How Would I Fail?
Ask yourself:
👉 What daily habits would guarantee failure?
👉 What dumb mistakes do I need to avoid?
👉 If I were actively sabotaging myself, what would I do?
For example:
3️⃣ Flip It: Turn Your Anti-Habits into an “I Don’t Do” List
This is where the magic happens. Instead of writing a to-do list, write a “don’t do” list.
Your identity shifts. It’s not just about action—it’s about who you are.
And people who see themselves differently behave differently.
Want to take this even further? Keep a failure log.
Every time you slip up, write:
Example: You binge-watched Netflix instead of working on your side hustle.
What happened? You were exhausted after work.
Why? You didn’t set up an easy way to start working.
Fix? Pre-plan tasks, set a 10-minute rule, and remove Netflix from your home screen.
Failures aren’t setbacks. They’re feedback.
The more you track and refine, the harder it becomes to keep making the same mistakes.
"Whenever I’m about to do something, I think, ‘Would an idiot do that?’ And if they would, I do not do that thing."
It’s funny—but it works.
Most people overcomplicate success when it’s really about avoiding stupidity.
So today, instead of asking: "How can I succeed?"
Try asking: "How can I avoid failure?"
And then… don’t do those things.
Until next time,
Ben
Join 30K+ readers for a no bullsh*t weekly email that helps master the Art of Living, Earn More, and Live with Purpose.