STRATEGYWeeks to result

Mixing Plays

Unpredictability in game theory

Problem it solves

unclear strategic direction

Best for

Individuals or organizations looking to gain an advantage in a competitive situation

Not ideal for

Those who prefer a more predictable or straightforward approach to strategy

Overview

Why this framework exists

Mixing Plays involves using unpredictability to gain an advantage in a competitive situation. This framework is inspired by the story of Takashi Hashiyama, who used a game of Rock Paper Scissors to determine which auction house would sell his company's art collection.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Unpredictability can be used to gain an advantage in a competitive situation
  2. Mixing plays can make it difficult for opponents to anticipate your next move
  3. Mixing plays can be applied to various areas of life, such as business, sports, or politics

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify the competitive situation
    Clearly define the competitive situation you're in. Make sure you understand the rules and the stakes.
    Pro tipResearch your opponents and their strategies
    WarningBe careful not to underestimate your opponents
  2. Create unpredictability
    Use unpredictability to gain an advantage. This can be done by mixing up your plays or using unconventional strategies.
    Pro tipKeep your opponents guessing by using a variety of tactics
    WarningBe careful not to become too predictable or repetitive
  3. Take action
    Start taking action towards your goal. Break down the goal into smaller, manageable tasks and focus on making progress.
    Pro tipCelebrate small wins along the way
    WarningDon't get discouraged by setbacks or obstacles

Checklist

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Examples

1 cases
Takashi Hashiyama's game of Rock Paper Scissors

Takashi Hashiyama used a game of Rock Paper Scissors to determine which auction house would sell his company's art collection. Hashiyama suggested that the two auction houses play a game of Rock Paper Scissors to determine the winner.

OutcomeThe game was used to create unpredictability and gain an advantage in the competitive situation.

Common mistakes

2 traps
Becoming too predictable
Becoming too predictable can make it easy for opponents to anticipate your next move.
Not being adaptable
Not being adaptable can make it difficult to adjust to changing circumstances or unexpected events.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of Mixing Plays is inspired by the story of Takashi Hashiyama, who used a game of Rock Paper Scissors to determine which auction house would sell his company's art collection. Hashiyama suggested that the two auction houses play a game of Rock Paper Scissors to determine the winner.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
The Art of Strategy: A Game Theorist's Guide to Success in Business and Life
Dixit, Avinash K. · 2008
Open source →

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