I am thrilled to announce that I recently released a heavy metal album, Mr Triumph – Face the Music, featuring lyrics inspired by several blog posts from The Adventure of Success. 

The concept of creating a heavy metal album with motivational lyrics has been a long-standing dream of mine. Initially, I planned to write both the lyrics and the music, and then hire professional musicians through Fiverr (as I did for my song In the Corner of Your Mind) to bring the music to life. However, the high costs of this approach made me hesitant to fully commit to the project.

Fortunately, the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence over the past two years have made it possible to bring my envisioned heavy metal album to life. 

If you’re interested in creating your own music, click this link to receive 250 free credits on Suno, the AI tool I used to create this album.

1. Power in My Hands

“Power in My Hands” is an anthem of self-empowerment, emphasizing health, wealth, and time as the foundational sources of personal freedom. The lyrics capture the journey of seizing control of one’s destiny, where each step and decision paves the way for the future. With its driving beat and motivational message, the track embodies the spirit of the album: bold, determined, and ready to conquer the world.

This song draws inspiration from my post “Health, Money, and Time as Sources of Individual Power,” which itself is inspired by a chapter in Mario Luna’s book Psicología del Éxito. 

[Video]

Here are the lyrics:

Walking down the path of life seeking to be free

Foundations strong in health wealth and time it’s key

Breathe in deep feel the strength within

Chasing dreams with vigour let the journey begin

Power in my hands shaping my own fate

Health is my first ally on this I won’t debate

Coins jingle as my steps buying freedom buying time

Crafting a life that’s truly mine

Tick-tock goes the clock every moment counts

Spending time wisely every second mounts

Build a future bold and bright

Under starlit skies into the night

Not just a number or a face in the crowd

I’m the master of my destiny strong and proud

From the food I eat to the money I save

Every choice is a step every action brave

Power in my hands shaping my own fate

Health is my first ally on this I won’t debate

Coins jingle as my steps buying freedom buying time

Crafting a life that’s truly mine

So, here’s to the strong who forge their own way

With health money and time, we seize the day

Individual power a force so true

In the end it’s up to me and you

2. The Compound Effect

“The Compound Effect” is all about the journey of learning a new skill through perseverance and gradual progress. Inspired by the concept of small, consistent efforts leading to mastery, the song paints a picture of a steady climb where each small improvement adds up to something extraordinary. The lyrics remind listeners that even when success seems distant, every bit of effort contributes to growth—like water gradually heating until it reaches a rolling boil, suddenly transforming with visible energy.

The song is inspired by the post “The Compound Effect of Learning a New Skill” which in turn draws from a chapter in James Clear’s book Atomic Habits. 

[Video]

Started from scratch with a vision so clear,

Hour by hour, overcoming the fear.

Tiny steps forward, they seem so small,

But each little gain adds up to it all.

It’s a slow rise, under the skies,

We’re building dreams that touch new highs.

The compound effect, it quietly reflects,

Our journey’s path and its complex effects.

Expectations high, progress feels slow,

The valley of doubts, a familiar foe.

But patience holds key, in time it will show,

That layers of learning steadily grow.

Like boiling water, the change hides its face,

Until one day, it’s a full-blown embrace.

A skill once distant, now vividly near,

The magic of compounding, suddenly clear.

It’s a slow rise, under the skies,

We’re building dreams that touch new highs.

The compound effect, it quietly reflects,

Our journey’s path and its complex effects.

It’s a slow rise, under the skies,

We’re building dreams that touch new highs.

The compound effect, it quietly reflects,

Our journey’s path and its complex effects.

So, let’s keep pushing, through days dark and bright,

For the compound effect brings our goals in sight.

A dance, a language, or chords on a guitar,

With time, these skills will take us far.

These skills will take us far.

3. Look to the Stars

“Look to the Stars” is a reflection on the importance of learning from those who’ve succeeded before us. It acknowledges the envy and scepticism that often prevent people from absorbing the wisdom of others. The song captures the essence of humility and curiosity—the need to put pride aside to learn from those who have already achieved greatness. It urges listeners to go beyond superficial admiration and understand the true journey of success.

The song is based on my post “Why People Don’t Learn Enough from the Successful“. 

[Video]

We look to the stars to those who’ve gone far

Seeking the paths where their secrets are

But blinded by envy or simple disdain

We ignore the lessons that could break our chain

They tell us their stories their failures their glories

But we hear what we want in their lifesongs’ choruses

It’s not just about what they achieve

It’s the path they tread and the dreams they believe

Some chase their shadows others the light

Wondering how to scale those heights

But learning is tough it demands our best

Not just a mimicry or a borrowed quest

Oh can we learn from those who win?

Without walking the miles can we begin?

It’s not just the success or the gold they’ve spun

But the wisdom they’ve gathered the work they’ve done

They tell us their stories their failures their glories

But we hear what we want in their lifesongs’ choruses

It’s not just about what they achieve

It’s the path they tread and the dreams they believe

So let’s set aside the envy and the pride

Learn from the journey take the wisdom in stride

For every story of success that’s told

Is a map to treasure more precious than gold

4. Shine on Erica

“Shine on Erica” is a tribute to a woman standing at the threshold of new opportunities, ready to embrace the adventure ahead. It’s a song of encouragement, urging Erica to step out boldly, leave doubts behind, and let her unique qualities shine. The uplifting chorus reflects the energy of seizing the moment and celebrating one’s individuality. This track’s message is all about confidence, courage, and taking ownership of one’s path, making it a perfect motivator for anyone ready to start a new chapter.

This is the only song on the album not based on a post from The Adventure of Success. Instead, the lyrics are inspired by a real-life story. 

[Video]

Step out it’s your time to shine

Lace up your boots and leave your doubts behind

The city lights sparkle, they’re calling your name

Today could be the start of everything

Shine on Erica you’ve got that fire

Walking through the door feel your spirits climb higher

A heart full of dreams in a world that’s wide

Let your colours fly oh so bright

Every step every smile you’re finding your way

In a crowd of voices, you’ve got something to say

Stand tall be proud in your truth you’ll stay

Erica this is your play it’s your day

Erica this is your play it’s your day

Shine on in your truth you’ll stay

Shine on Erica you’ve got that fire

Walking through the door feel your spirits climb higher

A heart full of dreams in a world that’s wide

Let your colours fly oh so bright

Every step every smile you’re finding your way

In a crowd of voices you’ve got something to say

In a room full of stories your story’s unique

Gather all the courage the love that you seek

Every moment a chance to be who you’ll be

Erica shine on set yourself free

Shine on Erica you’ve got that fire

Walking through the door feel your spirits climb higher

A heart full of dreams in a world that’s wide

Let your colours fly oh so bright

Every step every smile you’re finding your way

Erica shine on set yourself free

So, here’s to the laughter the love and new friends

To the nights you’ll remember where the magic never ends

Erica in this journey you’re never alone

Shine on shine on this world is your own

Shine on shine on this world is your own

5. Goodbye to the News

“Goodbye to the News” is an unapologetic declaration of independence from the constant barrage of news and negativity. The song’s raw energy captures the frustration of feeling overwhelmed by headlines and notifications, and the decision to reclaim control over one’s time and focus. The lyrics speak of breaking free from the addiction to news, finding peace in the quiet moments, and writing your own story without the interference of external noise. The track’s rebellious spirit is perfect for anyone tired of the overwhelming information age and looking for a way back to clarity.

The lyrics are based on my post “My Reasons to Stop Being a News Addict“. 

[Video]

Caught in the stream headlines scream

Lost in the noise lost my dream

Every alert a distraction that stays

Chasing the stories lost in a haze

Goodbye to the news I’m finding my way

Unplugging the noise reclaiming my day

No more chains to the tales that decay

I’m writing my story in my own ballet

Once a prisoner in the newsfeed’s flow

Missing life’s moments the highs and the lows

The world kept spinning but I stood still

My dreams on hold against my own will

They said “Stay informed” but at what cost?

Life’s true essence was what I lost

Now I step back breathe in deep

Choosing life’s adventures that I will keep

Goodbye to the news I’m finding my way

Unplugging the noise reclaiming my day

No more chains to the tales that decay

I’m writing my story in my own ballet

No headlines to chase no shadows to follow

I’m finding peace where once was hollow

Today’s the day I find my own spark

Living for the now lighting up the dark my mind before I sleep

6. Break the Cycle

“Break the Cycle” dives into the battle against overworking and burnout. It talks about the struggle to balance productivity with personal well-being, and the realization that focusing on the “vital few” is the key to a fulfilling life. With a pounding rhythm and fierce guitar licks, the song embodies the determination needed to break free from harmful work habits and embrace a healthier, more intentional approach. The lyrics encourage listeners to prioritize what truly matters and to remember that productivity isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters most.

Inspired by the post “Overworking: How to Fix It to Be Productive Long-term“.

[Video] 

I’m a knowledge worker controlling my own time

But overworking’s got me tangled in a twisted line

Distractions all around my focus slips away

Emails and notifications steal my precious day

Break the cycle find the light

From vicious work to virtuous might

Eliminate distractions interruptions too

Be selective with your tasks focus on the vital few

Vital few

Productivity’s sinking I feel the urge to stay

Missing out on life the gym guitar and dates

Your time is sacred don’t let the hours slipping away

Focus work and sacred rest to be the best version of yourself

Outside the office find your peace

In hobbies that help your mind release

From the blues of overworking rise above

Embrace the cycle of focused work

Break the cycle find the light

From vicious work to virtuous might

Eliminate distractions interruptions too

Be selective with your tasks focus on the vital few

In the virtuous cycle we’ll come alive

With focus and purpose, we’ll surely thrive

7. Face Your Nightmares

“Face Your Nightmares” explores Tim Ferris’ concept of fear-setting, encouraging a careful analysis of fears, creating plans to prevent and mitigate worst-case scenarios, evaluating the cost of inaction, and recognizing the value of even partial success. The lyrics challenge listeners to see fear not as a barrier but as a guide—a way to prepare, persevere, and eventually overcome. The song serves as a reminder that true success comes not just from setting lofty goals but from facing and conquering the fears that hold us back.

The lyrics are based on “Why Fear-Setting Is More Important Than Goal-Setting“, which is in turn inspired by Tim Ferris’ TED talk “Why You Should Define Your Fears Instead of Your Goals“. 

In the world of dreams, we set our goals

But fear creeps in it takes its toll

What if I fail what if I fall?

Fear-setting guides us through it all

“What if I” you start to write

“Attempt to make my dreams take flight”

Then define your fears put them under the light

Prepare your heart and hold on tight

Fear-setting not goal-setting is the way

Face your nightmares don’t shy away

Define prevent and repair

With bravery you will meet success there

What could you do if something goes wrong?

Plan your retreat and stay strong

Do not forget the cost of inaction

How will your life be if stuck in procrastination?

Think of the benefits even if small

What you gain by trying standing tall

What are the perks of partial success?

Be realistic assess and progress

Fear-setting not goal-setting is the way

Face your nightmares don’t shy away

Define prevent and repair

With bravery you’ll meet success there

Fear-setting not goal-setting is the way

Face your nightmares don’t shy away

Define prevent and repair

With bravery you’ll meet success there

Fear-setting not goal-setting is the way

Face your nightmares don’t shy away

Define prevent and repair

With bravery you’ll meet success there

The album is available on all major music streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, YouTube Music, Amazon, Pandora, Deezer, Tidal, iHeartRadio, Boomplay, Anghami, and more. 

The album was distributed via Distrokid. If you’re looking to distribute your own music on streaming platforms, use this 7% discount. 

When Learning Within-domain Information is Especially Useful

Although learning within-domain information is always useful, there are three circumstances in which is especially useful. One is when you want to know something very specific relatively fast. For instance, if you want to know how to fix a technical issue with your website. In this case, learning within-domain information would mean asking an experienced web developer to teach you how to fix this specific problem. Here you are not learning how to design websites from scratch. You are learning something very concrete that can be easily reproduced by someone who already has some knowledge about web design.

A second circumstance in which learning within-domain information from the successful is when you require an overall view of the learning project you want to tackle. This normally occurs at the beginning of a new learning project. Learning how other people have mastered the skill will help you to identify key stages and critical moments in the process of acquiring a new skill. Successful others in the relevant skill will also provide you with valuable tips and learning strategies that are relevant to your project.

Requiring prolonged feedback is the third circumstance in which learning within-domain information is especially useful. The motivation for requiring prolonged feedback tends to be the wish to learn very well and/or fast a new complex skill. For example, if you are a novice who wishes to become a good bachata dancer you will require a lot of practice. The help of an expert will provide you with a scaffold to support your learning and give you feedback on your progress. [2]

Nevertheless, it is necessary to point out something: although learning within-domain information from the successful tends to be very beneficial it might also be costly. The costs are also important when deciding to select your learning sources.

The Value of Learning Cross-domain Information

At first sight, following the medical advice of a successful actress doesn’t make any sense. The actress doesn’t have medical expertise. How is she going to give sound advice in an area she isn’t an expert? However, there is some evidence that suggests that people might be influenced by everything that successful people do and say [3].

Could this tendency to learn everything from the successful be advantageous, at least under certain circumstances?

Some cultural evolutionary scientists [4] have given a positive answer to this question. Because it is often quite difficult to identify what makes someone successful at something, they believe that natural selection might have favoured an indiscriminate tendency to copy the successful [5].

Take hunting in a foraging society. What makes someone a successful hunter? It could be his tracing skill, his ability to make bows, the materials he uses, the way he sleeps, or many other factors. As we don’t know, copying everything in the hope that at least one of the many characteristics copied is casually related to success in hunting might be advantageous, even when might also lead to copying some neutral or damaging characteristics.

There is another potential cause of the evolution of an indiscriminate tendency to copy everything that successful people do: the existence of general traits that lead to success in multiple domains such as having a high IQ [6].

When Learning Cross-domain Information Might be Useful

In my opinion, learning cross-domain information should be avoided as a rule of thumb. There is only one circumstance in which it might be useful: when there aren’t experts in the domain you are interested available. The rationale for this is the plausible existence of general traits that lead to success in multiple domains. So, if you must choose between someone who you know is an expert in something non-relevant and someone who isn’t an expert in anything, choosing the expert in something non-relevant is your best bet.

However, this circumstance is unlikely in this digital age, where large amounts of information are always available to you. If you have time to plan and consciously choose your sources of information to master a skill, it would be unwise to rely on cross-domain information.

The Value of Learning Transferable Information

If instead of copying what successful individuals do in one domain, we copy their general traits that lead to success in multiple areas; therefore, we are learning transferable information.

Psychologists have extensively studied some of these general traits. For example,

• Having a high need for achievement: a high desire to accomplish big goals, master hard skills, and keep high standards.
• Having an inner locus of control: the belief that your success and failure in life depend on the actions and decisions you take instead of external forces.
• Having a growth mindset: The “belief that your basic qualities are things you can cultivate through your efforts, your strategies, and help from others” (Carol Dweck, Mindset) in contraposition to a fixed mindset, which refers to the belief that your abilities are immutable.

If there are certain traits that lead to success in multiple domains and these traits are learnable to some extent, then copying these general traits from successful individuals would be advantageous even when their domain of expertise is not the domain you want to master.

When Learning Transferable Information is Especially Useful

Learning transferable information is mostly a long-term strategy that can be applied to multiple domains. It is considered “mostly” long-term because changing your mindset is something that requires time and discipline on your part. You will require to apply this learned mindset to the area you want to master and develop the skill for yourself, which requires hard work. Nevertheless, temporarily adopting transferable information might also lead to better results in a specific task. More importantly, the advantage of learning transferable information over within-domain information is that, once you have internalized, it will help you to achieve success in multiple important domains in your life [7].

Fortunately, transferable information is perfectly compatible with within-domain information. You can learn them both from the successful and combine them for better results. In my opinion, the combination of these two types of information is the best way to implement the social learning strategy of learning from the successful. It would provide you with general guidance that leads to success across a wide range of circumstances plus specific guidance tailored to a particular domain and context.

Next post

In the next post, I will discuss two views about learning from the successful. In the first view, learning from the successful refers to learning from someone extremely competent in a domain. In the second view, it just means to learn from someone a bit ahead of you in something you want to learn. I will also discuss when it is best to follow someone extremely successful or someone just a bit ahead of you.

Dr Ángel V Jiménez

Notes

[1] I have taken the terms within-domain and cross-domain information from a paper by the evolutionary anthropologists Joseph Henrich and James Broesch (2011): On the nature of cultural transmission networks: evidence from Fijian villages for adaptive learning biases.  I coined the term ‘transferable information’ in my doctoral thesis: The cultural evolution of social hierarchy: dominance, prestige, social learning. See pages 254-255.

[2] Here I am focusing on the benefits of learning within-domain information from the successful. Note, however, that I have pointed out before that there are some limitations to learning from the successful under certain circumstances: 1) when the identification of successful individuals in a domain isn’t clear, 2) when successful individuals in a domain are out of reach, 3) and when their circumstances are very different from yours. See ‘Social Learning: How to Select Your Learning Sources’.

[3] I am referring to the Angeline Effect: when Hollywood actress Angeline Jolie wrote a newspaper article about her decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy due to testing positive for a gene associated with breast cancer, there followed an increase in online searches for information about breast cancer, increased demand for genetic screening of this disease, and an increase in the number of referrals to undergo similar preventive operations.

Nevertheless, cases like this one remain anecdotal and ambiguous, given the difficulty of using observational data to determine cause-effect relationships. When Jolie wrote her article, there was already a growing interest in genetic screening for cancer, and guidelines about detecting breast cancer had just been published by public health organisations. Moreover, it is difficult to separate the effect of the content of the information she provided from the effect of her success in an area not related to medicine. For a critique of the research on the Angeline Effect and similar, see Chapter 3 “Prestige” in the book by Alberto Acerbi (2019). Cultural Evolution in the Digital Age.

This note has been adapted from my paper with Alex Mesoudi (2020): Prestige does not affect the cultural transmission of novel controversial arguments in an online transmission chain experiment.

[4] Cultural Evolution is an interdisciplinary scientific field in which biologists, psychologists, economists, anthropologists, linguistics, and other scholars study the diffusion of ideas, technologies, and other cultural practices from an evolutionary perspective. They consider cultural evolution an evolutionary process on its own although it interacts with biological evolution. The reader interested in the topic will benefit from reading books such as Cultural Evolution by Alex Mesoudi and The Secret of Our Success by Joseph Henrich.

[5] See Joseph Henrich & Francisco Gil-White (2001). The evolution of prestige: Freely conferred deference as a mechanism for enhancing the benefits of cultural transmission. For a recent study testing to what extent the human tendency to learn from the successful is within-domain or more general see Brand, Mesoudi, & Morgan (2021). Trusting the experts: the domain-specificity of prestige-biased social learning.

[6] These two paragraphs have been adapted from my paper with Alex Mesoudi (2019): Prestige-biased social learning: current evidence and outstanding questions.

[7] In this post, I am just suggesting the possibility of learning transferable information from the successful. To what extent learning this type of information from the successful would lead to your own success is something that requires further research by my part. So, I will leave it for future posts.