In a recent LinkedIn post, Sahil Bloom explores a counterintuitive idea: the potential downside of high intelligence when it comes to productivity and achievement. Bloom argues that while intelligence can be a powerful asset, it can also create an “illusion of progress” that hinders actual accomplishment.
Bloom begins by stating a provocative premise: “The smarter you are, the less you get done.” He elaborates on this by observing that many highly intelligent individuals he knows seem to be “the most stuck.” This, according to Bloom, is because intelligence can lead to a sophisticated form of procrastination.
“Intelligence creates the illusion of progress. You research instead of build. You plan instead of ship. You optimize instead of do.”
As Sahil Bloom notes, this intellectual engagement can feel productive, masking the fact that the truly important, albeit less glamorous, tasks are being avoided. The brain, in its quest for cleverness, finds more elaborate ways to sidestep the “boring thing that actually works.” This avoidance, Bloom suggests, is a common trap for those who rely heavily on their intellect.
The Power of Action Over Intellect
Bloom contrasts this tendency with the approach of individuals who achieve significant results without necessarily possessing superior intelligence. He identifies a key differentiator: a “violent bias for action.” According to Sahil Bloom, these high-achievers prioritize simplicity and execution over complex planning or optimization.
Embracing the “Boring Thing That Works”
The core of Bloom’s argument is the importance of consistently engaging in the fundamental actions that drive progress, even if they seem mundane. He writes:
“The people who change their lives aren’t necessarily smarter. They have a violent bias for action. They choose simple over clever. They do the boring thing that works.”
Bloom emphasizes that taking action, even before one feels fully prepared or has achieved perfect conditions, is crucial for building essential psychological resources. He points out that each instance of acting before readiness cultivates courage, and each instance of shipping imperfect work builds momentum.
“Every time you act before you’re ready, you build courage. Every time you ship before it’s perfect, you build momentum.”
Ultimately, Sahil Bloom concludes that courage and consistent action are more effective drivers of change than raw intelligence alone. His advice to his audience is straightforward: focus on executing the simple, effective tasks that yield results, rather than getting lost in intellectualizing or over-planning.
Moving Beyond Intellectual Paralysis
Bloom’s insights serve as a reminder that while intelligence is valuable, it must be coupled with execution to be truly effective. The tendency to overthink, over-plan, or over-optimize can inadvertently become a barrier to progress. By consciously choosing action and embracing the fundamental tasks that lead to results, individuals can overcome the potential pitfalls of excessive intelligence and drive meaningful achievement.
The article, based on Sahil Bloom’s LinkedIn post, highlights the critical role of a bias for action in overcoming intellectual paralysis and achieving significant goals.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Sahil Bloom on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 15, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →