Subsmax < EXTENDED PLAYBOOK >

Enter (sub-maximum).

Result? Steady progress instead of injury → recovery → repeat. Your brain also has a “max.” Trying to write, code, or design at 100% focus for 10 hours straight is a recipe for burnout.

That’s subsmax. And it works. Do you already practice subsmax without calling it that? Or are you a “max or nothing” person? Let me know in the comments. subsmax

Subsmax growth means growing at a sustainable rate—say 15-25% annually instead of 200%. It’s less exciting to VCs, but it builds companies that last. Because it feels like laziness.

But what if the secret to long-term success isn’t hitting the ceiling—but staying just below it? Enter (sub-maximum)

Our culture punishes “less than max.” If you’re not grinding, you’re falling behind. If you’re not going all out, you’re not trying hard enough.

So go ahead. Back off the redline. Leave 20% on the table today—so you can show up again tomorrow. Your brain also has a “max

April 14, 2026