Playing The Infinite Game: Why 20 Year Olds Should Embrace the Long-Term Mindset

Are you a 20-something struggling to find your place in the world? Are you constantly comparing yourself to your peers and worrying about the future? If so, you're not alone. But what if there was a different way of thinking about success that could help you thrive in the long-term? 

Enter "The Infinite Game" by Simon Sinek. 

In his book, Sinek argues that life and business are not finite games with clear winners and losers, but rather infinite games that have no defined endpoint. This means that success is not about beating others, but about striving for a higher purpose and contributing to a cause that is larger than yourself. As a 20-year-old, it's easy to get caught up in the short-term goals and pressures of our society. 

We're told that success is all about getting a good job, making money, and climbing the ladder. But what happens when we achieve those goals? Are we truly fulfilled? Or do we just move onto the next thing without stopping to reflect on what truly matters? This is where the infinite game comes in. By embracing a long-term mindset and focusing on a just cause, we can find deeper meaning and purpose in our lives. 

We can build careers that are aligned with our values and make a positive impact on the world. We can also develop resilience and adaptability, which are essential skills for navigating an ever-changing world. 

So how can you start playing the infinite game? 

Here are some tips: 

Define your just cause: What is the higher purpose that drives you? What values do you stand for? Take the time to reflect on these questions and write down your answers. 

This will give you a clear direction and motivation to keep going when times get tough. 

Build a trusting team: No one can succeed alone. 

Surround yourself with people who share your values and support your goals. Foster a culture of psychological safety where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas and making mistakes. Focus on the journey, not just the destination: Instead of fixating on short-term wins, celebrate the small victories along the way. Enjoy the process of learning and growing, and don't be afraid to pivot if something isn't working. 

By adopting an infinite mindset, you can create a life and career that are fulfilling and meaningful. 

So stop playing the finite game and start playing the infinite game today!