How to sleep like an elite athlete!
Sleep well
Author: Nirmal Thapa
1000 True Fans
I first read about the concept of 1000 True Fans in Tim Ferriss’ Tools of Titans. I finally read the essay of 1000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly and recommend it to the creators out there. It was very helpful to me. Here are the first few paragraphs of the essay:
To be a successful creator you don’t need millions. You don’t need millions of dollars or millions of customers, millions of clients or millions of fans. To make a living as a craftsperson, photographer, musician, designer, author, animator, app maker, entrepreneur, or inventor you need only thousands of true fans.
A true fan is defined as a fan that will buy anything you produce. These diehard fans will drive 200 miles to see you sing; they will buy the hardback and paperback and audible versions of your book; they will purchase your next figurine sight unseen; they will pay for the “best-of” DVD version of your free youtube channel; they will come to your chef’s table once a month. If you have roughly a thousand of true fans like this (also known as super fans), you can make a living — if you are content to make a living but not a fortune.
Here’s how the math works. You need to meet two criteria. First, you have to create enough each year that you can earn, on average, $100 profit from each true fan. That is easier to do in some arts and businesses than others, but it is a good creative challenge in every area because it is always easier and better to give your existing customers more, than it is to find new fans.
Second, you must have a direct relationship with your fans. That is, they must pay you directly. You get to keep all of their support, unlike the small percent of their fees you might get from a music label, publisher, studio, retailer, or other intermediate. If you keep the full $100 of each true fan, then you need only 1,000 of them to earn $100,000 per year. That’s a living for most folks.
Read the whole edited and updated version of the essay at https://kk.org/thetechnium/1000-true-fans/
Publish yourself
You should write a book by Seth Godin from his podcast, Akimbo.
The Next Challenge
We love challenges.
We’re here to take on challenges, successfully accomplish them, and then take on newer challenges.
What’s your next challenge?
Community Leave at SastoDeal
SastoDeal, a local startup from Kathmandu has Sastodeal “Community Leave” program where an employee gets 1 – 3 days paid-leave for him/her to do community work. A worthy initiative by SastoDeal and I encourage other companies to do what they can to take up causes they are passionate about.
I believe that all companies and especially local companies have an important responsibility to give back to the community where they do business. This also comes from the belief that with great power comes greater responsibility. As part of the ecosystem, we have to be responsible to the society and do what we can for its betterment. Having a giving back culture inside the company has countless benefits. First, employees feel good that they are working for a company that is making a difference in the society. Second, it helps in generating positive feelings about the company to potential employees, media, public and other stakeholders. Third, and the most important reason is that giving back is just the right thing to do.
I commend SastoDeal for starting the Community Leave initiative within their company since 2018. It is good to hear stories such as Laxman Gautam who distributed a year’s supply of educational materials in Chauri Deurali, Kavre. I look forward to hearing more stories from employees taking the Community Leave at SastoDeal and also am keen to hear from other companies on their giving back initiatives.
Culture as USP
Many technology companies in Kathmandu offer similar benefits to their employees. The benefits are as follows: 5 working days, 2 day weekends, subsidized lunch/dinner, transportation, accidental and medical health insurance among others.
For potential employees considering whether to join one technology company over another, it could be best to look into the work that the company does, its reputation in the ecosystem, growth opportunities and most importantly its culture. Technology companies should highlight their company culture more to attract the right talent. All the other benefits offered are starting to look the same.
Yerkes-Dodson law
The Yerkes-Dodson law is about the relationship between stress and performance. The law states that performance increases with mental stress, but only up to a point. When levels of stress become too high, performance decreases.
If you are in any capacity working to improve someone’s performance, use moderate stress to increase his/her performance. Consider skill level, personality, trait anxiety, and task complexity when introducing the “right amount” of stress.
Source: The Art and Science of Training
Love
Love makes you feel complete.
Love makes you alive.
Love makes you…
AI For Everyone
AI For Everyone, a non-technical course available on Coursera will help you understand AI technologies and spot opportunities to apply AI to problems in your own organization.
This is a great opportunity for anyone interested to learn about AI. I’m excited to take this course and had been waiting for it for a while. Read more about AI For Everyone course.
Course syllabus
Week 1: What is AI
- Introduction
- Machine Learning
- What is data
- The terminology of AI
- What makes an AI company?
- What Machine Learning can and cannot do
- Intuitive explanation of deep learning
Week 2: Building AI Projects
- Workflow of a Machine Learning project
- Workflow of a Data Science project
- Every job function needs to learn to use data
- How to choose an AI project
- Working with an AI team
- Technical tools for AI teams
Week 3: AI in Your Company
- Case study: Smart speaker
- Case study: Self-driving car
- Example roles of an AI team
- AI Transformation Playbook
- AI pitfalls to avoid
- Taking your first step in AI
- Survey of major AI applications
- Survey of major AI techniques
Week 4: AI and Society
- A realistic view of AI
- Discrimination / Bias
- Adversarial attacks
- Adverse uses
- AI and developing nations
- AI and jobs
- Conclusion
Service wins
There will always be vendors who can do the services you need at a cheaper price. You can research, talk to people, do more research and find the lowest cost provider. But is cost the only factor to consider when your business operations needs to run smoothly?
Excellent customer service will matter more when the challenge arises. When the business operations have to be running smoothly all the time, a minute situation can become a big ordeal. Thus, it’s necessary to measure the tradeoff between service and cost if you decide to go the cheaper route. Would it be really worth it down the line? If paying a little bit more now to save the headache in the future, it might be best to consider that option.
Are you putting a man on the moon?
The story goes like this: President John F. Kennedy was visiting NASA headquarters for the first time in 1961. While touring the facility, the President introduced himself to a janitor and asked him what he did at NASA.
The janitor replied “I’m helping put a man on the moon!”
What I got from this was that the janitor understood the vision, had a purpose, and felt that he was contributing to something bigger than himself.
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” Speech | History
Few thoughts on school curriculum
How about teaching young minds about character, purpose, and spirituality while they are in school?
We teach students a wide variety of subjects in a span of 18-20 years. They add layers of knowledge on various subjects as the years go by. By the time they graduate, they would have the academic knowledge, mastered test taking and report writing skills, and hopefully gathered some work experiences. Wouldn’t it be also important in today’s world to integrate character, purpose, and spirituality in the curriculum?
When students graduate from colleges and universities, they enter the professional world. Most would have student loans to pay and manage their day to day expenses. A lot of decisions are made daily. If you’re working for a private company, you will be helping the company reach more customers, make more sales and ultimately increase the bottom line. If he or she has good character, they will make decisions accordingly. They won’t only think about what can increase the company’s bottom line but also how it will impact others in the society. Without character, they will make decisions solely focused on generating more money for the company and disregard other stakeholders.
Few students graduate from colleges and universities with a definite purpose and calling. Most wander from job to job for a few years before realizing what they want to do. Some might not even find their purpose and settle for a job that just pays the bills. It’s a hit and trial basis based on your work experiences, conversations with people, circumstances in life among others. Some people become adventurous and find their purpose while others become content with what they have. Both outcomes are fine as long as the person is happy with where he or she is at in the stage of their life. If the students are given a course on how to find your purpose or about spirituality then they will have a better direction before or once they graduate.
Wouldn’t the world be a better place when we not only equip students with the subject knowledge but also instill them values of character, purpose and spirituality?
Making a difference in the world
Bill and Melinda Gates were asked by a reader What would your advice be to young people who want to make a difference in the world for the better? Here’s what they had to say:
Bill: Choose a cause that’s important to you and get involved. Whether you can donate your money, your time, or your voice, there are thousands of incredible nonprofits that could use your help. I’m a big fan of ONE, but websites like Charity Navigator and GuideStar can help you find other reputable organizations working on the issues that you care about the most. If you’re interested in volunteering, our foundation put together a good list of resources to help connect you to opportunities.
Melinda: Remember that no one is born a change-maker. It’s something you become when you see a problem, then dare to become part of the solution.
If you want to know what that looks like, just look to the young men and women of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In the wake of unfathomable and unacceptable gun violence, these students are insisting that their tragedy will be the last. “We are going to be the kids you read about in textbooks,” student Emma Gonzalez said last week. “We are going to change the law.”
This is how change happens. With bravery, hope, commitment—and the knowledge that progress only comes when we stand up and demand it.
Sapiens
I started reading Yuval Noah Harari’s book Sapiens A Brief History of Humankind.
Some initial points from the book that I found profound and gripping.
Three important revolutions shaped the course of history: the Cognitive Revolution, Agricultural Revolution, and the Scientific Revolution.
Homo sapiens had siblings: Homo rudolfensis (East Africa), Homo erectus (East Asia); and Homo neanderthalensis (Europe and western Asia).
Humans have extraordinarily large brains compared to other animals. Modern sapiens have a brain averaging 1,200-1,400 cubic centimetres.
An important step in the Sapiens rise to the top of the food chain was the domestication of fire.
The new Sapiens language gave them a significant advantage over other animals.
The book is very interesting and weaves through various disciplines to provide a fascinating perspective on the history of humankind.
Growing as a team
To grow as a team, I believe a certain level of “conflict” with members in the team is good and necessary to become better. By “conflict”, I mean a respectful and logical disagreement on the topic at hand. It could be that the other person is looking at the problem or solution from a different lens.
We come from different backgrounds and have various perspectives so conflict will surely arise in those situations but as a team we must work together to resolve them. In professional settings, it’s important to understand where the person with a different point of view is coming from and really hear them out. If the other person has valid and convincing point(s), I believe it is important to be open minded and receptive of his/her ideas and thoughts. No single person will have all the best ideas all the time. A strong team is one where each member can freely express themselves, be challenged by different viewpoints, and makes decisions together.
On the flip side, if there is no conflict, then there is complacency. There will be people just saying yes to everything and eventually that culture sucks the energy, enthusiasm, and input of everyone who want to make a difference. Choose wisely.
Book bucket list for 2019
Here are 19 books that are in my book bucket list for 2019. My plan is to read these books over the course of the year.
Becoming by Michelle Obama This is a memoir of the First Lady of the United States of America—the first African American to serve in that role. I’ve always found Michelle Obama to be inspiring and down to earth so looking forward to reading it.
Hell Yeah or No by Derek Sivers – Derek describes this book as “a collection of thoughts around re-defining yourself, changing focus, and saying yes to less.” I’ve read many blogs on his website and watched his Ted Talks, so looking to pick it up when its published.
Your Music and People by Derek Sivers – Derek describes this book as “a philosophy for musicians (and normal people) of getting your work to the world by being creative, considerate, resourceful, and connected.” From the several interviews that I’ve listened of Derek, this book will be a treat and a game changer.
कर्नाली ब्लुज [Karnali Blues] by Buddhi Sagar A debut novel by Buddhi Sagar, I have heard rave reviews of it but have not had a chance to read it. My sister just finished reading it and she recommended the book as well.
Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs by John Doerr – I read a few pages on Amazon and am already impressed with the legendary stories. A friend finished reading it and highly recommended the book too.
A Second Chance: For You, For Me, And For The Rest Of Us by Catherine Hoke – I first heard about this book in the Tim Ferriss podcast where he interviewed Catherine and found her story to be captivating and inspiring.
21 Lessons for the 21st Century by Yuval Noah Harari – I am a Gates Notes Insider and Bill Gates had talked about this book on his personal blog. Reading the book’s review and a few pages on Amazon, I am looking forward to be enlightened.
Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World—and Why Things Are Better Than You Think by Hans Rosling – I learned about this book in Bill Gates’ personal blog and really want to read this book. For a long time, I have felt that labels like “developing” and “developed” to describe different countries was outdated and almost insulting. So it’s refreshing to hear about this book which tackles this old definition and provides a better framework among many other things.
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE by Phil Knight – When I went to college, I wanted to work for one company after graduation and it was Nike. This was one of the reasons why I studied abroad in Amsterdam, The Netherlands which was very close to Hilversum where Nike’s European headquarters was located. At that point, I had planned to either get an internship or a field visit to it’s Hilversum office. Neither happened but Nike has always fascinated me. When I heard about this book, I was overjoyed and wanted to read it ever since.
Thanks A Thousand: A Gratitude Journey by A.J. Jacobs – I learned about this book from Tim Ferriss’s blog and it seems like a fun read. The book is about the author who decided to thank every single person involved in producing his morning cup of coffee.
This Is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn to See by Seth Godin – I subscribe to Seth’s blog and get his daily posts. Seth is a thought leader in marketing, advertising and many other domains and I’m anxiously waiting to pick it up.
Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger – A book recommended by Naval Ravikant. I actually wanted to read a book by Naval himself but came across this recommendation. This book has been recommended by many other people I follow as well so it’s about time I read it.
Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends On It by Kamal Ravikant – A book written by Naval Ravikant’s brother. Seems like an interesting read.
Bruce Lee Striking Thoughts: Bruce Lee’s Wisdom for Daily Living by Bruce Lee – Bruce Lee is a globally known figure and I’m curious to learn more about his life and philosophy through this book.
Born A Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah – Being a fan of Trevor Noah, I can’t wait to read this book. This book will be a delight and it will surely provide a perspective from another side of the world.
Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker – In early 2018, Bill Gates claimed that this book is his new favorite book of all time. He’s raved a lot about this book and is a must read for me this year.
The Happiness Equation: Want Nothing + Do Anything=Have Everything by Neil Pasricha – An INC writer provided a list of 12 books that had the most impact to him in 2017 and highly recommended this book. Upon browsing through Amazon’s reviews, the book had over 250 customer reviews and 77% had given it a 5 star. Related to the topic, I had previously read Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert and Delivering Happiness by Zappos CEO, Tony Hsieh. I hope to learn new things and gain an additional perspective on the classic subject of happiness by picking up The Happiness Equation.
The Drunkard’s Walk: How Randomness Rules Our Lives by Leonard Mlodinow – I learned about this book through a friend. Also this book was referenced in Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio-one of the books I read in 2018. When I scrolled through the pages of this book, I was fascinated by the content.
Rich Dad Poor Dad: What The Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert Kiyosaki – I had read this book a while back but I’m going to read it again. The lessons, knowledge and principles shared in the book are timeless and it’s always good to sharpen your financial acumen.
Image source: Getty Images
Making a New Year’s Resolution? Here’s some tips
2019 is right at our doorstep. Are you excited about 2019 and what it will bring? I’m sure you are. Here’s some helpful tips to make your New Year’s resolution stick.
Something to ponder upon as you get started on your New Year’s resolution list : Derek Sivers says it’s better to keep goals secret in his Ted Talk.
Venture Talk with Rajeev Amatya
Rajeev Amatya, Managing Director at daraz.com.np will discuss the “Future of E-Commerce in Nepal” on Monday, October 8th, 2018 at Nepal Tourism Board Hall (Bhrikutimandap) from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
I wrote a blog E-commerce in Nepal heats up, where I shared my assumptions on what would happen in the next 3-5 years in Nepal’s ecommerce scene. The Venture Talk with Rajeev Amatya will provide a great opportunity to understand the current and future of online shopping in Nepal. With Rajeev’s experience in the ecommerce industry for a few years, it would be good to hear his industry insights, market challenges and the next frontier for ecommerce in Nepal.
Daraz also recently launched its new website and mobile app.
Register for the Venture Talk with Rajeev Amatya here.
Making a global impact
There are certain moments in your life when you get a chance to make a global impact. You’re excited to embark on that journey and see where it will go. You’re thrilled about the process itself as much as about the results.
That moment for me now is with the Artificial Intelligence Scholarship Program powered by Fusemachines. The goal of this scholarship program is to provide 10,000 scholarships worldwide for basic AI courses. The scholarship program will help individuals start their careers in AI.
To spread the word on the scholarship program, Fusemachines has promoted it through press release, social media posts, and by visiting colleges in Nepal. Reaching out to colleges, explaining about the exclusive scholarship program and then visiting those colleges for presentations has been exciting and meaningful. The current AI talent is concentrated in the West and with our AI scholarship, the talent can grow from Asia to Africa. It’s important to democratize AI and provide opportunities to individuals around the world and not only for a specific group in a certain destination.
An article on The New York Times reported Typical A.I. specialists, including both Ph.D.s fresh out of school and people with less education and just a few years of experience, can be paid from $300,000 to $500,000 a year or more in salary and company stock, according to nine people who work for major tech companies or have entertained job offers from them. The demand for AI talent is extremely high and the supply extremely low. Thus, the need to democratize AI is not just the right thing to do but also presents a huge economic opportunity.
It makes me very proud to work on a global movement that is building the future of AI talent from Nepal to Nigeria.