Push-ups For Metrics

A story about using physical accountability (push-ups) to drive focus on key metrics and business fundamentals.

Core Problem

• Team members weren't tracking basic metrics
• Couldn't answer simple questions about user numbers
• Were focused on wrong priorities (office hours, NYC experience)

Accountability System Implementation

• Rule: 10 push-ups if unable to answer user metrics questions
• When push-ups didn't work, escalated to public shaming
  • Wrote giant "0" on wall behind team
  • Number represented current users
  • Had to update number daily
  • Created visual reminder of what matters

Why This Approach Works

• Creates immediate consequences for not knowing key metrics
• Makes metrics visible and unavoidable
• Forces daily engagement with core business numbers
• Shifts focus from secondary activities to fundamental metrics

Similar Approaches (Peter Thiel Example)

• Assigned one key priority per person
• Would leave room if anyone discussed non-priority items
• Philosophy: If it's not the one important thing, it's not important
• Used extreme measures to maintain focus

Key Principles for Early Stage Companies

• Focus ruthlessly on 2 key questions:
  1. Do people want this?
  2. How will we get customers repeatedly?
• Actively avoid everything else
• Say no to distractions like:
  • Raising money
  • Company culture
  • Hiring
  • Corporate structure
  • Naming/branding
  • Packaging design