Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
About the Author
About the Author
About the Author

How do you work? Assessing Your Retire, Rewire, and Rewrite Modes with Practical Lead Indicators

Being Human for a Better Tomorrow in the Age of AI

  • June 16, 2024
  • 21st edition
  • 10th in Vol 2
How Do You Work 1

This is a sequel to the earlier article on asking why you work and suggesting a three-modal mental model (Retire, Rewire, or Rewrite) for approaching work for self-exploration. In brief, Retire mode focuses on fulfilling duties and securing financial stability; Rewire mode involves embracing change and being proactive about outcomes; and Rewrite mode is about innovation and driving significant change within your role. For more details, you can read the original article

As a follow-up, here are a set of lead indicators to clarify your current mode and, more importantly, help you assess your present position and plan your next steps.

Lead Indicators for Retire Mode

  • You have an agreement with your manager on performance goals with monthly/quarterly milestones, a review, and feedback mechanism.
  • You have options or can manage your finances in case of unexpected job loss.
  • You are meeting life goals and pursuing interests outside of work.
  • Lead Indicators for Rewire Mode
  • You have identified and discussed key assumptions, risks, and mitigation plans with your manager and colleagues to meet performance goals.
  • You participate in cross-functional work groups to address challenges.
  • You are aware of and proactive about future challenges or changing expectations.

Lead Indicators for Rewrite Mode

  • You understand the market and business, and have a clear perspective on your function and role. You seek solutions to tough questions and are not deterred by difficulties.
  • You have a simple framework that outlines problems, are building solutions, with short- and medium-term actions that leaders and colleagues can collaboratively work on. Build is essential.
  • You have the space, support, and connections to be part of strategy and execution. You believe in taking action and are willing to walk the walk.

Notes on Modes and Lead Indicators

  • Life events can and should change your mode. Flexibility is key.
  • Career paths are not linear. Consider planning in time blocks (e.g., three years).
  • Appraisal is a two way trigger. It is also an opportunity to assess your alignment and progress with life goals for next best action in the coming year(s).
  • The outcome of the lead indicator assessment is a simple yes or no. If it's not a clear yes, then it's a no.
  • Lead indicators are cumulative from Retire to Rewire to Rewrite. If you lead a team, aim to have everyone on at least retire mode. Rewrite mode is specific to your function and role, and need to be for the company (ideally it is a key a part of the picture)
  • A plan should aim to achieve a yes on all lead indicators.

Thank you for your attention. I hope the three modes and lead indicators provide a framework for you to explore and grow. Happiness can be an infinite sum game at work. Take care.

Please share and comment if you feel this can help.

Best wishes

Select Quotes

“The wisest men follow their own direction.”
― Euripides
“Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being excited about what could go right.”
― Unknown
“Increasing your tolerance for discomfort is how you master yourself. The difficult conversations, the uncomfortable silence, the adversity. This is where you grow the most.”
― Unknown
“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”
― Albert Einstein
“The best jobs are neither decreed nor degreed. They are creative expressions of continuous learners in free markets.”
― Naval Ravikant

II. Questioning / Asking

Good conversations flow from well‑sequenced questions—topical, simple, coherent, cohesive.
LLM Conversation Example 1
Q: What are empirical judgments?

A: Empirical judgments are based on observation, experience, or experimentation.
Q: What are moral judgments?

A: Moral judgments are based on ethical principles and values.
“AI is a language. Treat it like one: practice, iterate, and mind your grammar prompts, assumptions, and verification.”
Share: