Quick Answer
For search, voice, and "just tell me what to do".
Most work is consumed once and forgotten. Asset-building work compounds: the effort invested continues generating returns indefinitely. AI can help identify which work is worth investing in for long-term returns, structure it for durability, and maintain it over time. The goal is to maximize the ratio of future returns to present effort.
Key Takeaways:
- Some work compounds; most is consumed
- Asset thinking changes work prioritization
- AI helps identify and maintain compounding work
- Structure determines compounding potential
- Long-term thinking creates different choices
Playbook
Audit current work for compounding potential
Prioritize work that builds lasting assets
Structure work products for long-term value
Use AI to maintain assets over time
Track asset returns vs. investment
Common Pitfalls
- All work seeming equally important
- Neglecting maintenance of existing assets
- Assets that consume more than they produce
- Ignoring present needs for future assets
Metrics to Track
Asset revenue to creation cost ratio
Asset productive lifespan
Compounding rate of existing assets
Percentage of work that becomes assets
Asset portfolio value over time
FAQ
What makes work 'compounding'?
Work that continues generating value without proportional ongoing effort. Products, systems, content, and relationships that keep producing.
Should all my work be asset-building?
No - some work is necessarily consumption (admin, support). But maximize the ratio of asset-building to consumption work.
How do I know when an asset stops compounding?
When returns decline relative to maintenance, or when the market moves on. Monitor asset health metrics.
Related Reading
Next: browse the hub or explore AI Operations.