The author explores how to measure personal growth, moving beyond traditional metrics like net worth. Inspired by business growth metrics, she proposes three heuristics: rate of change (becoming a "new person" every 3-6 years), time to solve problems (tackling major life issues like career, family, and finance efficiently), and number of future options (making choices that maximize future possibilities). She uses the analogy of an investment, aiming to "double" herself by evolving and gaining new perspectives. The author emphasizes solving big problems to create safety nets for future exploration and prioritizing actions that expand future options. She acknowledges that these heuristics are tailored to her preference for novelty and exploration and may change in the future.

How can we tell if someone has grown over several years? Chip Huyen offers three tips. I particularly resonate with Point 2, "Time to solve problems," and Point 3, "Number of future options."

Big problems are like a foundation; they should be solid and reliable. As time goes on, they should become more robust, freeing you up to tackle more interesting challenges.

The number of future options is also an important measure. What opportunities are available to me today that weren't available five years ago?

In the face of uncertainty, I lean towards the decision that would give me the most future options. For example, I’d choose a job that pays less but gives me more job options in the future (e.g. if the job gives me exposure like allowing me to work on open source or publish papers). I’d prioritize tasks that teach me transferable skills instead of tasks that teach me niche, narrow skills.

While our approaches may vary, having clear metrics is crucial. These metrics will give us greater confidence in our purpose and help us persevere to achieve our goals.