Published Apr 2, 2019

Graham Duncan — Talent Is the Best Asset Class | The Tim Ferriss Show (Podcast)

Graham Duncan, co-founder of East Rock Capital, delves into the art of talent identification and the role of integrity in investment management, while offering profound insights on personal development, adaptability, and the importance of aligning tasks with individual strengths. He challenges conventional views on success, emphasizing the value of time and presence over material wealth.
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  • Time Value

    Graham Duncan introduces the concept of "time billionaires," emphasizing the immense value of time compared to monetary wealth. He reflects on how young individuals often overlook their abundance of time, contrasting it with the limited time left for older billionaires like Rupert Murdoch 1. This perspective encourages a shift in how we perceive and prioritize our time, urging us to appreciate the present and make long-term decisions.

    There's a quote I like that we're all very focused on the length of our life. How do you appreciate the width of it as you're going along and somehow keeping that in your consciousness?

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    Duncan also highlights the importance of a long-term mindset in business, valuing those who pursue their passions over short-term gains 2.

       

    Mindfulness

    Mindful presence is a key theme in Duncan's philosophy, where he stresses the importance of being aware and present in the moment. He shares insights from Sam Harris and Byron Katie, emphasizing that the past and future are mere simulations, and the present is all that truly exists 3. This mindfulness approach is about welcoming every experience, even negative emotions, as part of life's journey.

    We are not human beings having a spiritual experience. We are spiritual beings having a human experience. Welcome to the party.

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    Duncan also discusses practical ways to cultivate presence, such as using life calendars to visualize time and prioritize meaningful interactions with loved ones 4.

       

    Infinite Games

    Duncan explores the concept of finite and infinite games, drawing from James Carse's insights. He explains that finite games focus on winning and ending, while infinite games aim to continue and involve others 5. This mindset shift is crucial in both life and business, encouraging a focus on long-term value creation rather than short-term success.

    It's not how well you play the game, it's deciding what game you want to play.

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    He advises individuals to regularly reassess the "game" they are playing, ensuring it aligns with their true goals and values 6.

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