unpublished alpha

In the face of unexpected disruptions, Netflix (and many other tech companies) employs a technique known as the “Chaos Monkey.” This strategy involves intentionally taking servers offline to test system resilience against potential failures caused by various factors like natural disasters, technology failures, or human error. By preparing for the unknown, Netflix ensures its system remains robust, enhancing both the company’s strength and its product quality.

But what about when chaos strikes closer to home, such as in your personal email, Dropbox, or bank account? How can you mitigate the harmful impact of potential disruptions? Here are practical ways to introduce redundancy into your life, protecting yourself and making your life more resilient.

financial security:

• diversify Your banking: Don’t rely on a single bank. Problems can arise, such as long customer service waits, transaction issues, or security breaches. Use multiple banking services to mitigate risks, like having two checking accounts, which is especially handy if you lose a card while traveling.
• use password managers: Protect your online accounts with strong, unique passwords managed by services like Dashlane, LastPass, or Apple Wallet.
• credit cards and loans: Maintain a credit card for large purchases or emergencies. Ensure it’s paid off regularly to avoid debt accumulation.
• data backup: Use services like Dropbox or Box for cloud storage. Consider an external hard drive for additional monthly or quarterly backup to protect against data loss from computer failures.
• investment diversity: For crypto, trade on multiple exchanges and in general hold accounts with different brokers. This approach isn’t just about having alternatives; it’s about ensuring accessibility and security.
• contrarian investments: Think about investing in assets that perform well during economic downturns or in emerging technologies that could redefine industries.

household readiness:

• stockpile essentials: Regularly add items like canned goods and grains to your pantry.
• emergency preparations: Keep a stocked earthquake kit, extra water, and cash on hand for emergencies. Try to never let your gas tank get below a half, and have multiple chargers, especially when traveling.
• use a VPN: Like NordVPN for secure internet access.

lifestyle management:

• avoid vendor lock-in: Using multiple platforms can prevent dependence on a single provider and introduce you to new features that could be beneficial. It also improves the ease of switching, since if you’re dissatisfied with a service provider, having ready alternatives makes it easier to switch hassle-free.
• miscellaneous preparations: Keep small reserves of useful items in various places (e.g., tips for valets in your car, batteries, books to read).
• technological literacy: Protection against the automation of jobs. A tool in understaning emerging risks and opportunities. Plus, a crucial source of leverage for those who know how to wield tech effectively.

mental health and leisure:

• Cultivate Interests: Keep a list of books, movies, and hobbies to engage with during downtime. This helps manage stress and stave off boredom. Apps like goodreads and Letterboxd or the good ol’ Notes app help you collect these recommendations over time.
• backup plans: What if you lose your job or face a natural disaster? Having savings equivalent to several impulse purchases can offer a buffer. Consider the implications of small emergencies, like a dead iPhone, and plan accordingly.
• personal health: Since you only have on body, personal health as a form of redundancy. Health, among literally being the most important thing, acts as a buffer against medical expenses and ensure personal productivity and satisfaction.

When it comes to generally making decisions, focus on robustness, where choices are made based on their capacity to maintain value across a wide range of possible future scenarios. A key component is long-term thinking, which inherently accounts for short term variability.

Adopting these strategies in varying degrees has truly enhanced my sense of security. With thoughtful yet straightforward planning, I feel better-equipped to navigate life’s unexpected challenges.