#24 As soon as a convention is established, the most interesting work would likely be the one that doesn’t follow it (Rick Rubin)

In this today's episode, we use Rick Rubin's key lesson of breaking conventions in art and life, drawing insights from his philosophy. We focus on understanding what convention is, how to identify it (and run the opposite way) and how we can make sure we are the ones breaking it, creating the most interesting work while doing so.

Key takeaways:

• Rules direct us to average behaviors.
• The goal is not to fit in, but to amplify differences.
• The most interesting work will likely be the one that doesn't follow it.
• History will forever repeat itself in art, tech, and business.
• When a convention is established, it creates opportunities for disruption.
• Humans are expert pattern matchers, which leads to stagnation.
• Optimization often means stagnation when conventions are established.
• Every innovation risks becoming a rule.
• The world isn't waiting for more of the same; it needs innovation.
• To create exceptional work, challenge the established norms.

Chapters:

00:00 Breaking Conventions in Art and Life

07:46Understanding Rick Rubin's Philosophy

13:24

The Nature of Conventions

19:01 Historical Examples of Convention Breakers

33:27 Identifying Established Conventions

57:03 Applying the Key Lesson in Life