The Direction Test: Climbing the Right Mountain

Speed without direction is just sophisticated wandering. The direction test helps you validate whether you're climbing the right mountain before optimizing your climbing technique.

The Core Framework

Before asking "How fast can I go?" ask "Where am I actually going?"

Three Direction Questions:

1. Destination Test: If I succeed completely at this path, will I be satisfied?
2. Values Alignment: Does this direction honor what I actually care about?
3. Future Self Check: Would my 80-year-old self thank me for this choice?

Common Direction Mistakes

The Optimization Trap

Getting really good at things that don't matter. Perfect execution of the wrong strategy.

The Momentum Fallacy

"I've already invested so much time/money/effort." Sunk cost thinking keeps you climbing the wrong mountain.

The External Validation Path

Choosing directions based on what others expect, not what you actually want.

Course Correction Framework

Regular Direction Audits

• Monthly: Am I still headed where I want to go?
• Quarterly: Deep review of goals and values alignment
• Annually: Major life direction assessment

The Pivot Protocol

1. Acknowledge: Current direction isn't right
2. Analyze: What specifically needs to change?
3. Adjust: Small course corrections or major pivot?
4. Act: Implement the change
5. Assess: Monitor for improvement

Implementation

Start With Why

Before setting goals, clarify your underlying motivations and values.

Build Direction Into Systems

Create regular check-ins and review processes to catch direction drift early.

Embrace Strategic Quitting

Sometimes the best decision is to stop doing something that's no longer aligned.

"There's nothing worse than climbing the ladder of success only to realize it's leaning against the wrong wall."