Brakes Fail
I think that's how one ought to live. Brakes fail. If we have the brakes, we keep using them on every corner, playing it safe and sound. But if there are none, the only thing you can do is handle the steering.
How to fail the brakes:
- Make irreversible decisions
- Pick the longest straight of road available
- Keep a fuel can
- Measure the scratches
Meanings:
Making irreversible decisions has the same meaning as the terms 'Making the leap', or Seth Godin's "Be on the hook". If you can reverse it, it means the brakes are still available. You'll be tempted to check the rearview too often to discover your capability.
Pick the longest straight of road: This is about picking the longest possible term goal. And if you were speeding at a brakes-failed pace, best to not settle for a nearby destination. Picking the longest possible road gives you the best chances of success when the brakes are down.
Keep a fuel can: If you lose speed and stop, you'll only go back to repaired-brake status, start looking over your shoulders, trying to follow all rules. So don't stop.
Measure the scratches: They show you how far you've come and what you've learned.
What if I crash too big? Buy a faster car next time. Brakes fail.