The Weekly Minute - March 10, 2023
What I Read This Week
Life’s Work: An Interview with Jerry Seinfeld (via Harvard Business Review)
The older article (2017) highlights Jerry Seinfeld’s work ethic and approach to creativity. He is known for his relentless pursuit of perfection and his focus on the craft of comedy, rather than just the performance. Seinfeld's dedication to perfection and his ability to connect with audiences through his genuine personality provides a valuable lesson for innovators and thought leaders.
Here’s a memorable answer that Jerry gives on if a consulting firm could have helped him establish a better model to prevent burnout on the show Seinfeld: If you’re efficient, you’re doing it the wrong way. The right way is the hard way. The show was successful because I micromanaged it—every word, every line, every take, every edit, every casting. That’s my way of life.
One Quote
Biologist Roger Payne on the power of having your boots on the ground and paying attention: “Any observant local knows more than any visiting scientist. Always. No exceptions.”
One Framework (Effect)
The Betty Crocker Effect
I heard this a few years ago and it was recently brought up in a work call. Perfect chase to share with you: The Betty Crocker effect refers to the tendency for people to place a higher value on something that is perceived more as homemade. In the 1950s, General Mills introduced cake mixes under the Betty Crocker brand that included all the dry ingredients, including powdered milk and eggs. Despite the product's convenience, it did not sell well due to feelings of guilt among consumers.
General Mills brought in psychologists who discovered that people felt guilty about using the cake mix as it saved so much time and effort compared to traditional cake baking. To address this, General Mills revised the product and relaunched it with the slogan “Add an Egg,” requiring homemakers to add a fresh egg and water to the mix.
The added step made the process more fulfilling and meaningful, and sales of the product soared. This innovation in consumer psychology teaches companies the "subtraction technique" of taking out a key component and adding back a little activity to create a sense of ownership and fulfillment for the consumer.
One Really Cool Video
John Mayer on improvising:
John Mayer improvising a song live is the most incredible thing you’ll see today: pic.twitter.com/Pn7R4MED3j
— Nathan Baugh 🗺️ (@nathanbaugh27) November 21, 2022
What I’m Watching This Weekend
The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass!
College Basketball conference tourneys!
