Delayed Action

I recently read a quick summary of Lex Fridman’s interview with Magnus Carlsen, considered the Greatest Chess Player of All Time. The comment about inaction as a strategy is interesting.

Inaction as Action: Strategy often goes beyond finding a way for you to win. Sometimes, it’s about letting the opponent find a way to lose. In these instances, inaction can be the optimal course of action.

It reminded me also about the quote I thought was attributed to Steve Jobs

When you don’t know what the next step is, it is ok to wait.

Most quotes on inaction are about avoiding analysis paralysis, or how imperfect action is better than perfect action. That’s true.

Yet, rushed action can be equally bad.

It is indeed ok to wait before taking an action. It is an often used strategy on the soccer pitch or in the peloton. Waiting for the right moment is delayed action, not inaction.

Delayed Action Door Closer

September 5, 2022


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