Two-Part Success Test

A simple two-part test to evaluate if someone has "figured it out" in life and business, based on how they communicate and orient themselves.

The Two-Part Test

1. Question vs Self-Promotion Ratio

• Measure what percentage of conversation is spent:
  • Asking questions about others
  • Being curious about other things/topics
  • Talking about themselves
• People who have "figured it out" tend to:
  • Ask more questions
  • Show genuine interest in others
  • Spend less time talking about themselves

2. Past vs Future Focus Ratio

• When people do talk about themselves, evaluate:
  • How much they discuss past accomplishments
  • How much they discuss future interests/goals
• Success indicators:
  • Less emphasis on past achievements
  • More focus on future possibilities
  • Rarely mention previous successes in bios/introductions

Key Observations

• Successful people often:
  • Don't include past achievements in their bios
  • Don't feel the need to validate themselves through past accomplishments
  • Focus conversations on future opportunities
  • Show genuine curiosity about others

Real World Example

• Kobe Bryant's Approach:
  • Wanted his next 20 years to make his previous 20 years "a footnote"
  • Focused on new ventures in film/storytelling
  • Avoided the typical retired athlete path of living in the past
  • Treated past achievements as stepping stones rather than peak accomplishments

The "Real Gangster" Principle

• "Real gangsters don't flex nuts because they know they got them"
  • True success doesn't require constant validation
  • No need to prove yourself when you're secure in your achievements
  • Focus on future growth rather than past glory