Jesse Itzler's Misogi Framework

Jesse Itzler introduced the concept of "Misogi" - a framework for making each year intentional and memorable by choosing one grand challenge that defines the year.

The core problem Misogi solves

• Years blend together by default - time flies because you're stuck in routine
• Routines are filled with inertia - Zoom calls, errands, weekly stand-ups with random people
• This happens by default - if you want anything else to happen, you gotta do something about it
• Need to be intentional with your time to prevent one year from blending into the next

What makes a good Misogi

• One grand challenge for the year - a year-defining thing that you will do
• Must be hard - requires real effort and commitment
• Must be rewarding - provides genuine satisfaction
• Must be memorable - something you'll remember doing
• Must be meaningful to you - personally significant, not just impressive to others

Examples of Misogi challenges

• Physical challenges: Iron Man, climbing Everest
• Skill development: Learning to jam out on piano (Shaan's 2025 Misogi)
• The specific challenge matters less than it being meaningful to you

Why Shaan chose learning piano

• Wanted to learn a new skill
• Specifically wanted to be able to jam out - play songs he wants, play in a dad band with others
• Thought it would be a really fun aspect of his life to work in
• Wants his life to be fun and interesting
• Recognized he'd never "magically" have the time - had to make it happen
• Long-term value: "I could be 80 years old I could be playing the piano"
• Year-defining: "That was the year I learned how to play the piano and I could do that for the rest of my life"

Selection philosophy

• Let interestingness be the filter (Paul Graham's principle)
• Don't force it - do things you're naturally interested in
• Choose something where at the end you'd say "that was pretty cool I did that"
• The Misogi should feel personally compelling, not just objectively impressive