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What is High Agency?

High agency is a critical personality trait marked by the ability to influence one's environment and take decisive action. It’s the difference between someone who shapes their destiny and someone who lets circumstances dictate their fate.

Imagine being stuck in a third-world prison cell. If you needed someone to break you out, whom would you call? The person you think of first is likely the most high agency individual you know. They see obstacles as challenges to overcome rather than insurmountable barriers.

In contrast, low agency individuals tend to accept their fate without much resistance. They let life "happen to them" rather than "happening to life." While high agency people might see a problem and think, "How can I solve this?" low agency people might resign to the notion that nothing can be done.

Understanding high agency gives an edge not just in personal effectiveness but also in identifying potential partners, employees, or leaders. It's about taking ownership and seizing opportunities, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Why Does High Agency Matter?

High agency is a critical personality trait that can profoundly impact one's life. Paul Graham identified "relentlessly resourceful" individuals as those who consistently overcome obstacles with tenacity and creativity.

These people don't just possess intelligence or charisma; they are animals when it comes to achieving goals. In other words, these high agency individuals make things happen, rather than letting circumstances dictate their actions.

They turn “impossible” challenges into opportunities. This mindset is invaluable, especially in leadership, entrepreneurship, and any role demanding problem-solving skills. Having high agency means actively shaping your world, rather than passively reacting.

By embodying this trait, one becomes capable of extraordinary achievements and inspires others to do the same.

How to Spot High Agency People?

• Locus of Control: These individuals believe they can influence outcomes. They don't blame external factors for failures but seek ways to overcome them.

• Intentionalism: High agency people have clear goals and take deliberate actions to achieve them. They plan their steps carefully, aiming for specific targets.

• Resourcefulness: They can quickly find solutions and make use of available resources. A prime example is the woman in the transcript who immediately implements ideas discussed, showing an unwavering commitment to action.

• High Bias for Action: With an inherent drive to move forward, these individuals start projects even before having complete information. They aren't paralyzed by analysis.

• Energy Distortion Field: Being around them leaves you energized and motivated. They can turn a room's atmosphere from lethargy to high energy in minutes.

• Independent Thinking: Their opinions often surprise you. They don’t fit into stereotypical boxes and frequently offer unique perspectives.

• Immigrant Mentality: High agency individuals often move far from home, demonstrating courage and a growth mindset. This adds to their resilience and adaptability.

• Niche Content Sharing: Instead of relying on popular trends, they send you lesser-known but valuable content, indicating they seek quality over validation.

• Transparent Criticism: They are blunt to your face but supportive behind your back, providing honest feedback to help you grow while defending you in your absence.

Can High Agency Be Developed?

The debate on whether high agency is innate or can be developed is intriguing. Some argue it's a genetic trait, but others believe it can be cultivated. George Mack likens developing high agency to building muscle. Just as anyone can increase their physical strength with proper training, individuals can enhance their agency through specific actions.

To reduce someone’s agency, you would:

• Make them hyper-general,
• Use no deadlines,
• Avoid breaking tasks into steps.

On the flip side, creating high agency involves:

• Setting clear goals,
• Providing step-by-step instructions,
• Encouraging action without overthinking.

This suggests that while there may be a genetic component, agency is malleable. Like muscle growth, the right inputs can significantly increase or decrease someone's agency.

Examples of High Agency in Action

Real-life examples brilliantly illustrate high agency traits. Consider the woman who was promoted twice in two years. Her high bias for action set her apart. When an idea was discussed, she implemented it immediately—often finishing tasks before the conversation ended. Her proactive approach and quick decision-making propelled her to leadership roles.

Another compelling example is the teenager who hacked his school's system to change his grades. This wasn't just a rebellious act but a demonstration of relentless resourcefulness. Instead of taking the conventional route to improve his grades, he found a shortcut, showcasing his unique problem-solving abilities.

Both examples underscore that high agency individuals don't wait for opportunities; they create them. Whether in professional settings or unconventional situations, they leverage their environment to achieve remarkable outcomes.

High Agency vs. Low Agency: A Visual Metaphor

Imagine two men stranded on an island. One spells "HELP" with pieces of wood, hoping someone will rescue them. The other uses the same wood to build a boat.

The first man represents low agency. He waits for external help, feeling powerless to change his circumstances. His approach is passive, relying on others to solve his problem.

In contrast, the second man embodies high agency. He takes control of the situation, using available resources to find a solution. Rather than waiting for rescue, he actively works to escape the island.

This metaphor vividly illustrates the difference between high and low agency. High agency individuals create their own opportunities, while low agency individuals are often at the mercy of their environment.