In life, we often encounter various challenges and setbacks. For example, failing an exam, failing an investment, losing a job, and so on. In the face of these difficulties, we may feel vulnerable and helpless.
However, there is one type of person who can thrive in the face of adversity and benefit from uncertainty. They have an ability called "antifragility."
What is Antifragility?
In simple terms, antifragility is the ability to benefit from volatility, randomness, chaos and stress, risk and uncertainty.
Here's an example:
Rubber balls bounce off the ground, while glasses shatter. The rubber ball is antifragile because it is able to benefit from the impact and become stronger.
Our immune system is also antifragile. When we are exposed to viruses or bacteria, the immune system becomes stronger and thus better able to fight off disease.
How does antifragility originate?
The term "antifragile" was coined by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a Lebanese-American scholar. He systematically elaborated on the concept of antifragility in his 2012 book, Antifragility: Benefiting from Uncertainty.
Why is antifragility occurring?
In a world of uncertainty, the fragile will be eliminated, while the antifragile will survive and multiply. Therefore, antifragility is an evolutionary advantage.
Reflections on antifragility
Antifragility teaches us that in the face of uncertainty, we should not be afraid, but should respond positively and look for opportunities from chaos.
In our daily lives, we can improve our antifragility by:
Keep an open mind and keep learning new knowledge and skills.
Dare to take risks and dare to challenge.
Build a diversified portfolio and reduce risk.
With antifragility, we can survive in an uncertain world, thrive in the face of adversity, and thrive in the midst of chaos.