Be an infinite player

Quick note on mental models: Everyone uses them whether they realize it or not. Mental models are abstractions, explanations, or frameworks that help us make sense of something. They are shortcuts that allow us to observe and respond to the world around us. 

I won't claim to be an expert in mental models, I'm certain I have a few flawed self-constructed ones I use on a daily basis that will cause me trouble at some point. But, they've helped me and even shaped me so far.

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Source: https://www.amazon.com/Finite-Infinite-Games-James-Carse/dp/1476731713

Simon Sinek, also wrote a great book about this: https://simonsinek.com/the-infinite-game 

The concept of Finite Games and Infinite Games was proposed by James P. Carse and there is quite no way to describe it better than he did himself: 

"There are at least two kinds of games: finite and infinite. A finite game is played for the purpose of winning, an infinite game for the purpose of continuing the play. Finite games are those instrumental activities - from sports to politics to wars - in which the participants obey rules, recognize boundaries and announce winners and losers. The infinite game - there is only one - includes any authentic interaction, from touching to culture, that changes rules, plays with boundaries and exists solely for the purpose of continuing the game. A finite player seeks power; the infinite one displays self-sufficient strength. Finite games are theatrical, necessitating an audience; infinite ones are dramatic, involving participants..."

There is no judgement in someone playing either finite games or infinite games, likely most people are always interchanging between playing the two. 

But, the crucial thing to really grasp here is "Do you know which game you are playing when?" and "Do you know which game the opposing player is playing when?" In business, it's important to understand who are finite players and who are the infinite players.

Finite players are looking for a win, while infinite players are simply looking to keep playing. 

Finite players observe the short-term market to identify wins even at the cost of risking future returns, infinite players study the long-term market to keep learning and growing. 

Finite players will squeeze a deal for every dollar for themselves, infinite players will leave something on the table because they know they'll work with you again.

Finite players withhold lessons they've learned to ensure a competitive edge, infinite players will share their learnings in the hopes it improves everyone's outcome.

You will likely come across finite players, but recognize their motives and act accordingly. Surround yourself with high quality infinite players.

Be an infinite player.