#atom

Structured approach for testing alignment hypotheses with minimal risk

Core Idea: Alignment experiments apply scientific thinking to personal growth by identifying areas of misalignment, forming hypotheses about potential improvements, and testing discrete changes with minimal commitment before deciding on larger changes.

Key Elements

• Three-stage process:

  1. Identify misalignment: Recognize areas where actions feel particularly unfulfilling or disconnected from values (often revealed through exercises like the Wheel of Life)

  2. Form a hypothesis: Determine one specific variable to change and predict its potential effect

     • Focus on a single independent variable for clear causation
     • Create specific prediction about anticipated effects
     • Consider timeframe and measurement criteria

  3. Execute and evaluate: Implement the change temporarily and observe effects

     • Keep the change localized to isolate effects
     • Maintain journal or log of experiences and insights
     • Note impacts on sense of alignment and wellbeing
     • Decide whether to continue, modify, or abandon the change

• Benefits:

  • Reduces risk of major life changes by testing incrementally
  • Creates evidence-based approach to personal growth
  • Builds self-knowledge through systematic exploration
  • Prevents all-or-nothing thinking about change
  • Develops lifelong experimental mindset toward alignment

• Example applications:

  • Testing new morning routines
  • Exploring different work environments or schedules
  • Trying alternative approaches to relationships
  • Experimenting with new hobbies or activities

Connections

• Related Concepts: Misalignment Burnout (experiments help prevent and address), Values Affirmation (identifies values to align with)
• Broader Context: Design Thinking (applies iterative prototyping to life)
• Applications: The Odyssey Plan (experiments can test elements from alternative paths), Three Alignment Quests (can incorporate experimental actions)

References

1. Abdaal, A. (2023). Feel Good Productivity.

#experimentation #personal_growth #scientific_thinking #decision_making

Connections:

Sources:

• From: Abdaal-Feel-good Productivity