Escaping local optimum — Why it's one of the biggest challenges in life and how to do it

As I was revisiting calculus, I stumbled upon two old friends: the concepts of local optimum and global optimum. Back in the day, I only encountered them when working through derivative formulas in uni. But now, they’re taking on a whole new meaning in my life.

In calculus, local optimum is a peak or valley within a limited range—it’s good, but not the best, which is the global optimum. In life, a local optimum is a spot that feels comfortable or was once the best choice, but loses its shine as new opportunities arise.

Please read the full text at my substack as I found the image editing/uploading experience much better there!

Written on September 25, 2024