The Iterative/Experimentation Mindset
The iterative or experimentation mindset offers an alternative approach to personal change — one based on curiosity rather than obligation. Instead of forcing habits and feeling guilty when they don't stick, this approach treats new behaviors as experiments to be tested and evaluated. I have come across this concept often recently, especially in this conversation and this video, and I believe there is something valuable and inherently true in it.
How the Experimentation Mindset Works
- Observe your interests and identify potential experiments
- Commit to a specific experiment for a defined period (2 weeks, 1 month, etc.)
- During the experiment, observe bodily sensations and thought patterns — you may also keep a journal to objectively notice the data like a scientist would
- After the experiment ends, decide whether to keep, discard, or adjust the behavior
This mindset connects to the natural process of evolution mentioned by movement coach Ido Portal — observing, adjusting, and embracing change rather than resisting it, potentially leading to a more relaxed, parasympathetic state.
According to executive coach Joe Hudson, many successful people he coaches demonstrate an iterative mindset — they take action and then adjust to make things successful or stop altogether. They build while experimenting. This approach is uncommon because:
- People fear public exposure during experiments because there is uncertainty involved
- Public failure feels more humiliating than private failure — and running experiments in "public" increases the chances of experiencing shame
- Starting without certainty about direction requires courage and a certain emotional detachment/lightness from the outcome of the experiment itself — non-identification
Practically, here are some things to consider for personal application:
- Run experiments more frequently
- Loosen attachment to controlling outcomes
- Enjoy the process more without unnecessary heaviness
- Observe, adjust, iterate with some lighthearted playfulness — sincere not serious