PDF Summary:Do Epic Shit, by Ankur Warikoo

What does it mean to truly achieve success—professionally and personally? In Do Epic Shit, Ankur Warikoo offers an unconventional approach to fulfillment and happiness. The first part of this guide delves into transforming your mindset, developing self-awareness, and redefining your priorities. Instead of chasing societal norms or external validation, Warikoo encourages discovering personal motivations and goals.

The second part focuses on developing impactful habits and routines. From overcoming procrastination to entrepreneurship principles, Warikoo shares insights on enhancing productivity and leadership skills. He also touches on money management, with advice for healthy financial outlooks and literacy. This roadmap aims to foster an authentic, growth-oriented life.

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Practical Tips

• Use a "success simulation" exercise where you visualize completing a task successfully, including the steps taken and the feelings after completion. This mental rehearsal can boost your confidence and reduce the fear of failure or success that often leads to procrastination.
• Engage in "anxiety audits" at regular intervals, where you pause to reflect on what's causing you stress at that moment. Use this insight to develop a personalized toolkit of stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, short walks, or talking to a friend, which you can employ whenever you feel the urge to procrastinate due to anxiety.
• Use a voice recorder app to talk through your anxieties as they arise. Speaking your fears out loud can sometimes make them seem less daunting and more manageable. Later, listen to the recordings and reflect on whether the anxieties were justified and how they influenced your behavior. This can help you develop a more rational response to similar situations in the future.
• Create a "micro-goal" reward system where you set up small incentives for completing each step of a task. Decide on a reward for each step, whether it's a five-minute break, a piece of chocolate, or a short walk. This approach can make the process more enjoyable and provide immediate satisfaction for small achievements, encouraging you to keep moving forward through the task.

Initiating and steering a new enterprise

Cultivating the appropriate mentality and perspective tailored for entrepreneurial ventures.

Entrepreneurship ought to be viewed as a way of thinking, not just as a vocational option.

Warikoo underscores that the essence of entrepreneurship goes beyond simply initiating a commercial venture; it embodies an attitude dedicated to driving transformation, nurturing innovation, and courageously questioning established norms. He proposes that the entrepreneurial mindset is versatile and can be utilized in various situations, such as initiating a startup, managing a group in a well-established firm, or engaging in artistic endeavors. The author encourages readers to embrace an entrepreneurial perspective by seeking opportunities for innovation, taking ownership of their work, and proactively identifying and solving problems.

By adopting this mindset, individuals become agents of change within their own spheres of influence, regardless of their formal job title. Warikoo contends that adopting this viewpoint empowers people to harness their talents and enthusiasm to generate worth by enhancing current methods, inventing novel goods, or fostering beneficial transformations in their societies. The author underscores that the essence of unleashing one's entrepreneurial spirit is rooted in adopting an active stance towards existence, perpetually striving for enhancement, creativity, and to effectuate a significant influence.

Practical Tips

• Implement a "yes, and" rule in your daily conversations to foster entrepreneurial thinking, which involves building on others' ideas rather than dismissing them. This can lead to a habit of collaborative innovation and open-mindedness. For instance, when a friend suggests a new way to organize a community event, respond with "yes, and we could also try..." to add to the idea, encouraging a culture of additive thinking.
• Start a "problem-solving journal" where you document daily challenges and brainstorm innovative solutions. This practice will sharpen your ability to identify problems and think entrepreneurially about how to solve them. For example, if you notice inefficiency in your morning routine, you could devise a new system for organizing your tasks the night before.
• Adopt a "Prototype Mindset" by creating small, low-cost versions of ideas to test in your environment. This approach allows you to experiment with change without significant risk. For instance, if you believe a new software tool could improve productivity, you could first use a free trial version to gather data on its impact before advocating for a full-scale implementation.
• Test the waters of entrepreneurship by starting a mini-project based on a hobby or interest. For instance, if you enjoy baking, try selling your goods at a local market or to friends and family. This small-scale venture allows you to experience the creation of value from your passion without the need for a large investment or business acumen.

Building a high-performing team through trust and empowerment

Creating a workplace atmosphere that encourages team members to take on responsibilities and learn from their mistakes, rather than being micromanaged

Warikoo champions a leadership style that emphasizes trust, empowerment, and the importance of each individual's contribution. He encourages fostering accountability among team members, cultivating their autonomy, and motivating them to embrace calculated risks and decision-making. He cautions against micromanaging, arguing that it stifles creativity, inhibits growth, and undermines team morale. The author encourages fostering an environment where individuals are appreciated and trusted, which empowers them to try new things, learn from errors, and offer their distinct abilities to enhance the collective achievements of the group.

Warikoo believes that this approach not only fosters a more engaged and productive team but also fosters an environment where individuals feel comfortable taking initiative and trying new approaches. He proposes that leaders can amplify their team's collective talents by promoting a collaborative environment and sharing authority, thus establishing an atmosphere that is both creative and dynamic. The essence of this approach is to provide guidance and support, while also enabling people to explore innovative concepts, experiment with fresh ideas, and contribute their unique perspectives to the collaborative efforts of the group.

Context

• By fostering an environment that supports experimentation and new ideas, organizations can stay competitive and adapt to changing markets. This involves creating a safe space for failure and learning.
• Autonomy refers to giving employees the freedom to make decisions about their work. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and motivation, as individuals feel more in control and valued for their expertise and judgment.
• Creativity thrives in environments where individuals feel free to explore and experiment. Micromanagement can create a fear of making mistakes, which discourages employees from trying new ideas or thinking outside the box.
• Trust fosters better collaboration and communication among team members, as individuals are more willing to share ideas and support each other.
• A supportive and empowering workplace can lead to lower employee turnover, as team members are more likely to feel valued and satisfied with their roles.
• Providing access to necessary resources, such as training, tools, and time, supports individuals in exploring new methods and initiatives.
• Organizations that embrace this leadership style may experience long-term benefits such as increased adaptability, resilience, and a stronger competitive edge in their industry.
• Acknowledging and rewarding team members who take initiative and contribute unique ideas can motivate others to do the same, reinforcing a culture of innovation and creativity.

Recognizing that the ability to remain calm and composed is a crucial leadership skill

Warikoo underscores the importance of leading with calm and composure, particularly during times of adversity. He notes that the true measure of a resilient leader is maintaining composure during periods of uncertainty and difficulty, rather than in moments of prosperity. The author advises individuals to foster emotional resilience and learn to handle their stress and worries, which will enable them to exude a stable and confident demeanor towards their colleagues.

Warikoo emphasizes that a calm and collected leader can inspire confidence and foster a sense of stability within their team, allowing them to navigate difficult situations with a clearer perspective. It involves remaining calm and adhering to a steady course even when faced with unexpected challenges. The author posits that such calmness equips leaders with the ability to decide logically, engage in clear communication, and instill a feeling of stability within their group, particularly during unexpected situations.

Practical Tips

• Engage in "emotional role-playing" with a trusted friend or family member where you simulate stressful situations and practice responding with resilience. This could be as simple as having a mock difficult conversation and practicing maintaining composure or finding solutions in real-time.
• You can practice mindfulness during routine activities to enhance your calmness. Start by focusing on your breath or the sensations in your body while doing mundane tasks like washing dishes or walking. This trains your mind to stay present and calm, which can then translate into clearer decision-making during more stressful situations.
• You can foster stability in your group by creating a 'surprise scenario' game night where each person must solve an unexpected problem. This activity encourages quick thinking and collective problem-solving, which can translate to real-life situations. For example, you might simulate a power outage during a team meeting and work together to find ways to continue the meeting without electricity, promoting adaptability and calmness under pressure.

Money management and financial literacy

Developing a constructive attitude in managing finances.

Learning to differentiate between assets and liabilities, as well as managing debt responsibly.

Warikoo explores the frequently neglected area of financial literacy, providing insights into typical financial blunders and sharing useful tips for prudent financial management. He underscores the significance of distinguishing between assets, which yield income or grow in worth, and liabilities, which deplete your financial reserves. Based on his own life lessons, Ankur Warikoo cautions against accumulating significant debt, particularly for depreciating assets like cars or gadgets. The author stresses the significance of allocating investments into assets that appreciate, including stocks, real estate, and intellectual property.

Warikoo underscores the importance of proactively and intelligently engaging with one's finances rather than allowing them to dictate one's actions. He encourages readers to understand financial concepts like compound interest, taxes, and inflation, empowering them to make informed decisions about spending, saving, and investing. The author emphasizes the critical role of financial literacy in navigating the complexities of modern life, which empowers individuals to safeguard their economic well-being and thereby achieve greater control and sway over their personal matters.

Practical Tips

• Challenge yourself to convert one liability into an asset within the next six months. For example, if you own a car that's primarily a cost center due to maintenance and loan payments, consider ways to make it an asset, such as using it for a ride-sharing service or renting it out when you're not using it. This exercise pushes you to think creatively about the resources you already have and how they can contribute to your financial well-being.
• Create a visual debt tracker to hang in your home, using a large poster or whiteboard to chart your debt repayment progress. By visualizing your debt in a physical space you frequent, you're constantly reminded of your financial goals and can celebrate each payment with a satisfying visual marker, like coloring in a thermometer or crossing off a number on a countdown.
• Implement a 30-day waiting period for all non-essential purchases to avoid impulse buying of depreciating assets. During this time, research alternative ways to achieve the same goal without buying a new asset, such as renting, borrowing, or buying second-hand. After 30 days, reassess whether the purchase is truly necessary.
• You can start a virtual investment club with friends to pool knowledge and resources for investing in appreciating assets. By collaborating, you'll gain insights into different asset classes like stocks, real estate, and intellectual property. For example, each member could research a specific sector or type of investment, share findings, and collectively decide on investments, which could reduce individual risk and increase the potential for higher returns.
• Start a peer accountability group focused on financial goals. Gather a small group of friends or family members who are also looking to engage more with their finances. Meet monthly to discuss financial strategies, share resources, and support each other in reaching personal financial milestones. This creates a community of accountability and encouragement to stay proactive with financial management.
• Develop a "Real-Life Financial Scenario" game with friends or family. Use real or hypothetical financial situations to discuss and analyze the impact of compound interest, taxes, and inflation. For instance, create a scenario where you have a certain amount of money to invest, and then work out how different interest rates and tax implications would affect the growth of that investment over time. This interactive approach can help solidify your understanding of these concepts in a social and engaging way.
• Use a budgeting app that gamifies saving and investing. Look for an app that turns financial management into a challenge, rewarding you with points or achievements for hitting savings goals or making smart investment choices. This can make the process of learning and applying financial principles more engaging and less daunting.
• Start a 'skill-swap' network within your community to exchange services without monetary transactions. For example, if you're good at web design and someone else is a mechanic, you can offer to build a website in exchange for car repairs. This can help you save money and foster a sense of community self-reliance, reducing economic vulnerability for everyone involved.
• Create a "Budget Remix Challenge" for yourself where each month you focus on a different category of your budget to find creative ways to reduce expenses and increase savings. For example, one month could be dedicated to food expenses, where you explore meal planning, couponing, and cooking at home to cut costs. The next month, you might focus on entertainment, finding free or low-cost events in your community or leveraging subscription sharing with friends.

Welcoming the liberation that comes with financial stability.

Understanding that money buys freedom, which is a privilege, and using it to make wiser choices

Warikoo considers financial security not merely a goal but a pathway to attain more liberty and versatility throughout one's existence. He argues that monetary means enable the pursuit of dreams, the exploration of new opportunities, and the backing of significant projects without the constraints of financial limitations. The author recommends viewing money as a tool to achieve goals and improve one's quality of life, rather than letting it turn into a source of stress and anxiety.

Warikoo advises aligning your financial decisions with the core elements of your existence, channeling your resources into avenues that promote self-growth, joy, and meaningful contributions to society. This passage highlights the importance of a strong financial base in enabling individuals to pursue avenues aligned with their personal values and goals, rather than being restricted by economic limitations. The author emphasizes that true wealth lies not in the accumulation of significant financial resources, but in utilizing those resources to create a life of meaning, purpose, and independence.

Practical Tips

• Implement a "One In, One Out" rule for your personal spending. Whenever you make a non-essential purchase, sell or donate an item of equal value. This practice encourages mindful spending and can help prevent unnecessary expenses, thereby increasing your savings and financial freedom. If you buy a new gadget, for example, sell an older one you no longer use to recoup some of the cost.
• You can create a "Freedom Fund" by setting aside a small percentage of your income each month dedicated to long-term financial independence. Start with as little as 1% of your monthly income and gradually increase it. This fund is not for immediate emergencies but for future opportunities or ventures that align with your personal liberty and versatility goals. For example, if you're passionate about traveling, this fund could eventually cover a sabbatical to explore the world without financial stress.
• Support significant projects by volunteering your time or expertise. Look for local organizations or online platforms where you can contribute to projects that align with your values and interests. This could involve anything from helping out at a community garden to offering your professional skills to a nonprofit. For example, if you're skilled in marketing, you could help a local charity develop a campaign to raise awareness for their cause.
• Develop a "Quality of Life Index" to measure how your spending impacts your happiness. Track your expenses for a month and rate each purchase based on the satisfaction it brought you on a scale of 1-10. Analyze the results to identify which expenses are truly enhancing your quality of life and which are not, then adjust your spending habits accordingly.
• You can start a "Joy Journal" to track activities that bring you happiness and growth. Keep a small notebook or digital document where you jot down daily experiences that make you feel joyful or contribute to your self-growth. This could be anything from a conversation that sparked an idea, a book that inspired you, or a new hobby that challenges you. Over time, you'll have a personalized guide to what enriches your life, helping you to invest more in these areas.
• You can create a personal "Meaningful Wealth Plan" by setting aside an hour each week to reflect on how your spending aligns with your values. Start by listing your core values and then review your bank statements to see where your money is going. Are you investing in experiences and items that truly matter to you? Adjust your budget to increase spending in areas that contribute to your sense of purpose and independence, and cut back on expenses that don't align with your values.

Overcoming the psychological barriers and societal narratives around money

Dispelling the falsehoods and misunderstandings concerning money inherited from past generations.

Warikoo acknowledges the pervasive societal narratives that surround money, often laden with misconceptions and negative associations. He challenges the notion that wealth is inherently evil or that individuals with significant wealth are always selfish or unethical. Recognizing that money functions as a tool and that its impact is determined by the intentions and actions of the individual wielding it is essential. The author encourages readers to critically examine their own beliefs about money, identifying any limiting beliefs or negative associations that may be hindering their financial well-being.

He encourages readers to break free from these limiting perspectives and develop a more empowering and positive outlook on money. The author underscores the attainability of financial prosperity through honorable methods, highlighting that individuals have the capacity to utilize their economic assets to effectuate beneficial changes globally. By questioning established convictions and embracing a deeper comprehension of economic principles, individuals can foster a more positive and satisfying connection with their finances.

Context

• Wealth can be a powerful driver of economic growth and innovation. Wealthy individuals often invest in businesses, create jobs, and contribute to economic development, which can have positive societal impacts.
• Money can be a tool for personal growth, enabling access to education, travel, and experiences that broaden perspectives and enhance skills.
• A lack of financial education can lead to misconceptions about money management, investment, and wealth accumulation, reinforcing limiting beliefs.
• Those with a positive outlook are often more resilient in the face of financial setbacks, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
• This involves creating businesses that aim to solve social problems while being financially viable. Social entrepreneurs focus on innovation and sustainability, proving that profit and positive impact can coexist.
• By investing in or supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, individuals can promote environmental conservation and responsible resource management, helping to combat climate change and preserve ecosystems.
• Awareness of global economic trends and their local impacts can provide a broader perspective on personal financial decisions and opportunities.

Relationships and interpersonal skills

Building a strong basis for healthy relationships through the development of self-acceptance and a deep understanding of oneself.

Acknowledging that the transformation you wish to observe in others should initially occur within yourself.

Warikoo emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and accepting one's authentic identity as a foundation for developing strong and satisfying relationships. He argues that we often project our own insecurities and unmet needs onto others, leading to conflict and dissatisfaction. The author encourages readers to engage in honest self-reflection, identifying their own flaws and working towards personal growth. He suggests that by addressing our own shortcomings, we can approach relationships with greater empathy and understanding, fostering stronger connections based on mutual respect and acceptance.

Warikoo emphasizes the relationship between our internal and external realms, proposing that our self-treatment has a direct impact on our interactions with other people. He encourages readers to cultivate self-compassion and acceptance, recognizing that imperfections are part of the human experience. By embracing our own flaws and working towards personal growth, we can approach relationships with greater empathy and understanding, fostering stronger connections based on mutual respect and acceptance.

Practical Tips

• Start a personal authenticity journal where you reflect on moments you felt true to yourself and times you didn't. By writing down these instances daily, you'll become more aware of your authentic self and can identify patterns or situations that challenge your authenticity. For example, if you notice you're often inauthentic in certain social settings, you can prepare strategies to maintain your true identity in those situations.
• Implement a 'Change One Thing' challenge where each month you focus on one specific behavior or trait you want to improve, creating a detailed plan for how to do so. For instance, if you want to become more patient, you might decide to practice mindfulness for 10 minutes daily or refrain from interrupting others when they speak.
• Create a "compliment jar" where you collect compliments or positive feedback you receive from others. Whenever you're feeling self-critical, read a few to remind yourself of your value through the eyes of others. This can be as simple as writing down a kind word from a friend on a piece of paper and adding it to the jar.
• Volunteer for a role that involves helping people in challenging situations, such as a support hotline operator or a mentor for at-risk youth. Engaging with people facing difficulties can provide firsthand experience with the imperfections and struggles of others, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and understanding in your own relationships.

Developing empathy and understanding in your relationships

Recognizing the distinct viewpoints and life experiences of each individual, and striving to comprehend them.

Warikoo emphasizes the significance of developing empathy and comprehension within our interpersonal connections. He emphasizes that everyone possesses a distinct background, life events, and viewpoints that mold their emotions and influence their behaviors. The author encourages readers to practice active listening and strive to understand others' points of view, recognizing that these perspectives are equally legitimate, even if they differ from our own convictions. We must engage in each interaction ready to perceive the world from the perspective of the other individual, putting aside our personal biases and assumptions.

By nurturing a mindset of empathy, we lay the groundwork for genuine connections and deepen our understanding of those around us. Warikoo suggests that cultivating this skill allows for more meaningful and fulfilling relationships, fostering a sense of mutual respect and appreciation even when perspectives diverge. It emphasizes the value of embracing diverse perspectives, which can enhance our comprehension and fortify our connections with others during our personal development and learning.

Other Perspectives

• Active listening and understanding can sometimes lead to the overvaluation of uninformed opinions, which can be detrimental in situations where expert knowledge is crucial.
• The idea that all perspectives are equally valid might lead to moral relativism, where the distinction between right and wrong becomes blurred.
• There is a possibility that in trying to see the world from the other person's viewpoint, one might inadvertently patronize or misunderstand them, especially if there is a significant cultural or experiential gap.
• Deeper understanding of others does not automatically result from empathy; it also requires knowledge, experience, and sometimes professional expertise, especially in complex situations.
• Excessive empathy can sometimes lead to emotional burnout or compassion fatigue, which may negatively impact one's ability to maintain fulfilling relationships.
• Strengthening connections through the acceptance of diverse perspectives assumes that all parties are willing to engage in open dialogue, which may not always be the case.
• In some cases, the pursuit of understanding diverse viewpoints can lead to social fragmentation if individuals only align with those who share similar perspectives, ironically leading to echo chambers rather than personal growth.

Addressing disputes and fostering dialogue within personal connections.

Discerning the appropriate times to engage in discussions and recognizing when to avoid them is crucial for expressing your genuine self with authenticity.

Warikoo acknowledges that conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship. He encourages readers to learn to navigate these challenging situations constructively, communicating openly and honestly while also being mindful of the other person's feelings. The author recommends carefully choosing which battles to fight, suggesting that on occasion, it is more prudent to sidestep certain arguments while thoughtfully participating in different ones. He advises readers to discern between constructive debates that foster development and pointless disputes that merely heighten stress.

Warikoo emphasizes the importance of expressing ourselves authentically, even in challenging situations. He suggests that open and empathetic communication allows for a grasp of the other person's perspective, which helps in settling disputes and strengthening relationships. Maintaining equilibrium between championing our perspectives and valuing the viewpoints of others is crucial. By mastering the art of handling disagreements with sincerity and poise, we can forge connections that are sincere and rewarding.

Other Perspectives

• The idea that conflict is inevitable could be seen as a self-fulfilling prophecy, where expecting conflict might inadvertently lead to its manifestation, rather than approaching relationships with the mindset of mutual understanding and peace.
• In some cases, attempting to navigate a challenging situation constructively can lead to over-complication of simple issues, creating unnecessary confusion or prolonging resolution.
• Open and honest communication can sometimes lead to oversharing, which might not be appropriate in all contexts or relationships.
• Prioritizing the other person's feelings might inadvertently validate emotional manipulation, where one party could use their emotional state to control or dictate the terms of the conversation.
• This approach could inadvertently give the impression of apathy or lack of passion about certain topics, which might not be the case.
• There may be situations where avoiding an argument could be misconstrued as agreement or acceptance of the opposing viewpoint, which could have unintended consequences.
• Participating thoughtfully in different arguments can be mentally and emotionally taxing, potentially leading to burnout if one is not careful to also prioritize self-care.
• Some might suggest that the act of engaging in disputes, even less constructive ones, is part of the process of learning how to discern between different types of debates, implying that participation is necessary for growth.
• Authenticity in expression is not always beneficial if it comes at the expense of others' feelings or if it is used as a guise for harmful candor.
• In certain situations, such as negotiations or competitive environments, too much openness can put one at a strategic disadvantage.
• Understanding the other person's perspective does not always guarantee dispute resolution if the underlying issues are deeply rooted or if there is a significant power imbalance in the relationship.
• While valuing others' viewpoints is important, there are situations where championing our own perspectives must take precedence, especially when it comes to matters of personal values, ethics, or safety.
• The concept of an "art" implies a skill that can be refined and improved, yet some individuals may inherently struggle with confrontation due to personality traits or past experiences, suggesting that not everyone can master this art.