Wherever your aspirations lie, the value of studying canonical work is key in avoiding a local maximum. Sustained, immersive engagement with great work doesn’t only inform, it deepens understanding wrought in ourselves through the very process.
This process begins by honestly reflecting on what you’re trying to do, and then systematically identifying the prime achievements within this field. You don’t need to know the global maximum from the outset; the key is to orient yourself toward the gradient—the path that leads upward from wherever you are. You can climb from good to better when pursuing those influences.
Crucially, this ascent is not static. Periodic reflection changes understanding, and that is vital—sometimes you discover what you’ve tracked against doesn’t align with your true goals or strengths. It was a hill. Pause often. Reassessing allows you to course correct.
This process requires you look beyond immediate peers, and seek out the obscure sources. In doing so, you continually triangulate your horizon. Make hanging out on the edge enjoyable, regardless of the edge— be it knowledge, ability or network. Attempt things one step beyond where you are now.
Be indistractable in curating your milieu.