When starting something new, progress often feels “infinite” at first. Going from zero to one is a massive jump, but this rate of progress is a deceptive outlier. To see reality clearly, you must look for Equilibrium Points. This model is based on the law of diminishing returns: the economic principle that increasing resources doesn’t always lead to a proportional increase in results.

Just as Goldilocks sampled bowls to find the one that was “just right,” you must find the zone where your input provides the maximum satisfaction. For example, studying for nine hours straight likely results in lost comprehension. By waiting for your progress to stabilize after the initial burst, you find the equilibrium—the true rate of improvement or success you can expect in the long run. Don’t be fooled by “shiny beginnings”; wait for the data to settle.