Enforce Simple Metrics
Complex metrics hide failure. When tracking requires significant effort, tracking stops.
This directive mandates that all measurements be reductive, binary, and immediately verifiable.
The Core Principle
Complexity is the enemy of execution.
A metric should instantly communicate success or failure. If measuring an outcome requires calculation, debate, or subjective interpretation, the metric is flawed.
A disciplined system measures one variable perfectly.
Why This Fails for Most People
Most people track too many things. They confuse tracking with acting.
They build elaborate spreadsheets. They track qualitative feelings. They debate whether a task was “mostly” done. The tracking becomes the work.
When tracking is hard, execution becomes invisible.
The Gyōji Directive
Use the simplest possible metric to enforce behavior.
If tracking takes more than ten seconds, the metric is invalid.
Implementation Protocol
- Identify the single most important behavior.
- Define a binary condition for that behavior.
- Track only that condition.
- Use physical or frictionless digital tracking.
Metrics must be binary and instant.
Common Errors
- Tracking inputs, outputs, and feelings simultaneously.
- Using software that requires significant upkeep.
- Redefining the metric to avoid failure.
Enforcement Rule
If the metric is debatable, it is useless.
Final Order
Simplify the metric. Enforce the binary.