Strong Opinions, Loosely Held

I’ve been humbled lately.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve had a few situations where I held a strong belief about something, only to run into conflicting evidence. In one case, the data pointed in a different direction than I expected. In another, someone who knew far more about the subject explained why I was looking at it wrong.

Neither felt great.

But I’ve come to think that’s actually the job.

If you’re trying to move quickly and build something meaningful, you’re going to be wrong. The question isn’t whether it happens. The question is how quickly you’re willing to recognize it, adjust, and move forward.

What keeps me grounded through all of it is understanding the difference between a vision and a strategy.

The vision rarely changes.

I know where I’m trying to take Filterbuy. I know the type of company I want to build. I know the values that matter and the long-term outcomes we’re working toward.

The strategy changes all the time.

Pricing changes.

Marketing changes.

Organizational structures change.

Product ideas change.

Assumptions definitely change.

If the facts change, those things should change too.

The trap I’ve seen in myself—and in plenty of other operators—is becoming so attached to a belief that you stop updating your thinking. You spend time, money, and energy defending a position long after reality has moved on.

Eventually reality wins.

The only question is whether you update voluntarily or get dragged there.

I’ve found it’s usually much cheaper to change your mind early.

Strong opinions, loosely held.

It’s an old idea, but it’s one I’ve needed to remind myself of recently.

Have conviction.

Move fast.

Take your best shot.

But when the evidence says you’re wrong, don’t make it personal. Adjust and keep going.

Protect the vision.

Everything else is up for revision.