Melvyn's Notes

Is your solution in search of a problem?

Consider these examples:

1. Apple Watch: How many truly need it as a life necessity?
2. Hydro Flask: Why spend over $70 on a water bottle?
3. Peloton: Post-COVID, why not exercise outdoors?

I own two of these, so this isn’t a critique of owners. However, if your solution is seeking a problem, reconsider your strategy unless backed by a strong brand or ecosystem.

I use the CLIPS framework to validate problems:

• Challenge: We start by listening closely to challenges faced by our ideal customers.
• Learn: We do a deep dive into these challenges, learning as much as possible, and also considering various perspectives.
• Ideate: We employ the Third-Third method¹ for solution brainstorming.
• Prototype: We test solutions and collect feedback from users, clients, and developers.
• Scale: Finally, we identify the most impactful solutions to scale.

Before envisioning solutions, first ask: What problem does it solve?

1. The Third-Third was first introduced by Tim Hurson in his book, Think Better: An Innovator’s Guide to Productive Thinking.

Today, I was overwhelmed by various emotions.

First, anxiety loomed over me as I contemplated the week ahead.

Second, frustration arose from the children constantly irritating each other, which drove me to my wit’s end.

Third, I grappled with fear, uncertain of what the next six months might hold.

However, documenting these feelings helps preserve my sanity. It reminds me of the concept “slow down to speed up.”

While it seems contradictory, the truth is that taking a moment to pause and rest is essential for regaining momentum.

Experimented with Micro.blog and love its speed, though I have concerns about SEO.

I also tried Standard Notes but it didn’t work for me.

Now, I’m using Obsidian for its robust linking features. Is this really crucial? I do prefer the workflow from iA Writer to Micro.blog.

Just as maps are drawn, frameworks are constructed.

Here’s how:

1. Behaviors: how we respond or act.
2. Conditions: under what circumstances do we behave in that particular way.
3. Beliefs: over time these conditions reinforce the beliefs that we hold.

To understand the frameworks that guide your thinking, observe the way you behave.