Blog

When To Call the Banker

reflections
strartegy
The world has become too complex for any individual to master through power or time alone. But information is abundant and compounds. The more you know (especially across…
Jan 31, 2026
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

What/Where Are Your Assumptions?

reflections
epistemology
We all act based on models of the world. Good thinking means knowing how you might be wrong, understanding the assumptions beneath your models, and questioning them when the…
Jan 28, 2026
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Random Impressionable Encounters (RIE) - 2/n

reflections
photography
Writing, singing, and photography are my forms of artistic expression in varying degrees: my love for writing has come with slow progress towards mastery; my singing was…
Jan 14, 2026
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Lessons from 2025

reflections
Because an unexamined life is not worth living, I look back at the just-ended year (like I did at the end of 2022, 2023, and 2024), and draw lessons for the next. I also…
Jan 8, 2026
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Memoirs of a Passionate Dissenter

reflections
entrepreneurship
leadership
A reflection on my early days as a tech startup salesman and how profound frustration with a lack of clarity and vision led me to dissent, write a passionate letter to the…
Oct 10, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Rare and Valuable

reflections
careers
To truly own your upside, you need to understand your value profile as a mix of commodity skills (common, replaceable) and bespoke skills (rare, hard to substitute).…
Oct 1, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Owning your upside

reflections
careers
Wild success requires two things: competence and ownership of upside. Being good at something isn’t enough—you must also capture the value created from your skills. This…
Sep 28, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

You’ll start living when you stop thinking yourself interrupted

reflections
What you experience on a daily basis is not an interruption of your life, it is your life. You’ll start living the moment you stop waiting for the perceived interruption to…
Jul 30, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Two Games

reflections
careers
Win at the wrong game, and you’ll still lose. Not all games are worth playing, and you are better off thinking deeply about how you choose, redesign, or create the games you…
Jun 18, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Random Impressionable Encounters (RIE) - 1/n

reflections
Clarity about what you really want and what it takes is important. Real ambition demands honesty about both desire and sacrifice.
May 29, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Life As a Ping-Pong Bat

reflections
Life follows three phases—reception, exploration, and settlement—mirroring the shape of a ping-pong bat. In the reception phase, we accept banal truths handed to us without…
Jan 19, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Porter on Careers

careers
Porter’s strategic frameworks, originally designed for businesses, can be effectively applied to personal career management
Jan 12, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Saying NO to good things.

reflections
ethics
To achieve lasting happiness, we must learn to say “no” even to good things. This is necessary to avoid excess, make wise trade-offs, and preserve our baseline of happiness…
Jan 5, 2025
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

On Reading

epistemology
reflections
The following was written for my friend Aaron Tsatsu T. and my brother. The observations herein are not uttered in a didactic spirit: they are, for the most part, tentative…
Dec 31, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Lessons from 2024

reflections
Reflecting on the year 2024, the writer explores themes of serendipity, personal freedom, tradeoffs, purpose, and living through chaos. Drawing inspiration from various…
Dec 16, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

The MASTER Framework: Making and Measuring Binary Progress

reflections
productivity
This essay introduces the MASTER framework—a structured approach for managing projects with binary outcomes (either fully successful or not). MASTER stands for Map, Analyze…
Dec 2, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Blessed Are Those Who Love the Ground

reflections
If the way we approach success is anything like a flight, then we spend too much time practicing for the time spent in air, and way too little time practicing for the time…
Nov 18, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

To My Brother and Our Generation: An Open Letter

reflections
This was never meant for public consumption. I wrote it for my brother, and have only ever shared it with two people. My friend Zigi, who has encouraged me to share so many…
Nov 18, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

What you know and what you think you know

reflections
epistemology
The essay explores the dangers of overestimating what we know and falling for the illusion of knowledge in a world saturated with information. It advocates for: 1. Honesty…
Nov 16, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Binary Progress: Rethinking Advancement in Either/Or Situations

reflections
productivity
This article explores the heterogeneous nature of progress, focusing on binary progress in either/or situations. It highlights the contrast between linear progress, which is…
Nov 11, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Diligent Filters

reflections
productivity
Not everything is worth your attention; a platitude, for sure, but have we structured your life to ensure that you do eliminate the burden of constantly having to vet…
Oct 20, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Do not waste your sandboxes!

reflections
Life is full of hidden “sandboxes”—low-risk opportunities to build confidence and skills for your big dreams. Like regulatory sandboxes, they let you experiment, learn, and…
Oct 3, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Operationalizing First-Principles Thinking

productivity
problem-solving
reflections
This article reframes first-principles thinking in a practical light, emphasizing the need to not only break down problems but also understand the relationships between…
Sep 23, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Overoptimized: At what cost?

productivity
reflections
Knowing when to consolidate progress instead of constantly pushing for more growth is an art, and developing a sense of balance requires thoughtful resource allocation.…
Sep 13, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

A Summer To Remember

reflections
news
This summer, I realized with great shock that for the greatest, if not entirety of my life, I have taken for granted the empowerment that can result from language…
Sep 2, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

The Means to a Meaningful End: The Power of Self-Expression through Writing

virtue ethics
reflections
The essay argues that contemplating and defining the means to achieve a meaningful life is crucial, especially when integrating diverse philosophical ideas. It highlights…
Jul 20, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Holistic Minimalism

reflections
virtue ethics
Holistic minimalism is about removing constraints from all aspects of life—material, emotional, and occupational—to increase flexibility and resilience. Unlike traditional…
Jun 19, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Sustainable self-confidence is about collecting data.

reflections
Sustainable self-confidence is built by consistently collecting evidence of past successes, much like how Real Madrid’s culture of relentless determination and comeback…
Jun 11, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Good Taste

reflections
productivity
careers
Good work requires both hard work and good taste, but discussions often focus only on hard work because good taste is harder to quantify. Good taste means knowing what’s…
Jun 5, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Trusting the Machines: Technology and the Quest for a Just World.

AI Ethics
tech
The essay explores the ethical and societal implications of technology, particularly focusing on software and algorithms. The essay argues that blind reliance on technology…
May 25, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Rethinking Intelligence: Human Cognition, AI, and the Future of Work.

AI Ethics
tech
The article explores the relationship between human cognition and artificial intelligence (AI), discussing topics such as cognitive biases, the role of instinctive and…
May 25, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Fortunate to be Unfortunate.

reflections
virtue ethics
Embracing adversity as an opportunity for growth, rather than avoiding it, we should embrace it becasue it leads to personal development and fulfillment. While it is natural…
May 22, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

On Graduation

news
I came, doubted, had a wonderful experience, graduated, and now I am excited for the future.
May 18, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

A World of Stories

epistemology
reflections
The world is made of stories, not just atoms. Numbers are powerful storytelling tools, but their context and the process behind them matter more than their precision.…
Mar 27, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Trois pensées inédites.

reflections
One: understanding the distinction between making money and building things is crucial, as they represent different endeavors with unique challenges and approaches. While…
Mar 16, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

More Conviction, Yes More!

reflections
The essay explores the balance between critical thinking and taking action, likening philosophers to those who lack conviction. It argues that while philosophers may…
Mar 15, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Lessons in Strategy: A Reflective Summary of Growth and Learning

reflections
entrepreneurship
strategy
The author reflects on their journey through a strategy development class, initially unsure but ultimately enriched by the experience. They highlight the importance of…
Mar 10, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Builders & Architects

reflections
To get good things done, we need to be both profound thinkers and aggresive doers. That was so hard for me to say until I met Warren Buffet
Feb 25, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

What/Where is the counter argument?

epistemology
reflections
Considering counter arguments is crucial for intellectual growth and interpersonal understanding. Failing to explore opposing viewpoints leads to shallow understanding and…
Feb 20, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

On Loss: Lessons from Youssoupha & C.P. Cavafy

poetry
reflections
Loss is inevitable, but how we choose to respond to it is up to us. Youssoupha Mabiki’s song “Mon Roi” and C.P. Cavafy’s poem “The God Abandons Antony” offer insight into…
Feb 18, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Seizing the AI Advantage: Considerations from Africa

tech
Africa
governance
reflections
The article advocates for a proactive approach to AI in Africa, emphasising the need to build ecosystems and infrastructure to sustain innovation and avoid being left behind…
Feb 17, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Optimising for the wrong metrics

reflections
productivity
Beware the trap of optimising for the wrong metrics! Metrics are meant to help us achieve goals and although there are common metrics for common goals, some situations…
Feb 14, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

The One Thing & Why You Should Fear Some Philosophers

reflections
Success relies on understanding the world through accurate models. Philosophers, especially those who combine insight with action, can construct and realise these models…
Feb 4, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Meditations of a mini-gym bro: Lessons from an unexpected place

reflections
The author reflects on their fitness journey, highlighting lessons like evolving goals, respecting individual paths, and the power of consistent commitment. They stress the…
Feb 1, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Random Leaves From My Diary: Twisting & Turning

reflections
The journal entry reflects on anxiety using the metaphor of twisting and turning like a screw. It draws on philosophical ideas from Kierkegaard and Freud, suggesting that…
Jan 29, 2024
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Lessons from 2023

reflections
Reflecting on the year 2023, the writer explores themes of ambition, gratitude, perspective, and values. Drawing inspiration from literature, philosophy, and personal…
Dec 31, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Embracing Serendipity: Lessons from a Week of Unexpected Turns

reflections
The author reflects on a week filled with unexpected events, starting with a finger injury during a football game. Initially disappointed by the disruption of his plans, he…
Oct 22, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Journeying through Life: Reflections on Poetry, Some Philosophy, and ‘Ithaca’

virtue ethics
poetry
The author shares how poetry, particularly C.P. Cavafy’s “Ithaca,” has shaped their perspective on life as a journey. They emphasize the importance of savoring the journey…
Sep 11, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Rethinking Coups: Are They the Solution Africa Needs?

Africa
governance
In the face of coups in African governance, the author argues that while governance in Africa is broken, coups are not the solution. Coups can lead to instability, dynamic…
Sep 7, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

The Good Life: A Symphony of Rationality, Feeling, and Purpose

virtue ethics
Random leaves from my diary - this one - from exactly a year ago today. In which I reflect on my lessons learned on my quest for what should constitute a good life. I share…
Aug 20, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

I joined Smart Africa

news
careers
It has been over a week since I started at Smart Africa as a Senior Intern - Strategy & Growth, a role I will be in while I continue my studies.
Aug 15, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Learning in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Navigating Existential Questions, Ethical Considerations, and the Imperative of Knowledge

AI Ethics
This argumentative piece delves into the intricate relationship between learning and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI). The author contends that while AI tools…
Aug 6, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Reflections on Leadership; Musings of a Journeyman

leadership
There is an aeon-old debate as to whether leaders are born or made. I cannot settle that debate and consider such an attempt impractical. However, if personal experience…
Jul 19, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

A new challenge for a new semester

news
careers
“The athletes of the mind, like those of the playing field, must be prepared for privations, long training, a sometimes superhuman tenacity. We must give ourselves from the…
Jan 16, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Lessons from 2022

reflections
Because an unexamined life is not worth living, I look back at the just-ended year and draw lessons for the next. I also mention my best songs, movies and books from 2022.
Jan 1, 2023
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

On working hard and standing out

careers
productivity
You are essentially a start up of you, your very own CEO. How can you work in ways that give you a competitive advantage in the market of people-start-ups?
Dec 8, 2022
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Random Notes from moderating a panel discussion on Technology Entrepreneurship in Africa

news
careers
tech
entrepreneurship
Seated at the front L-R: Yvette Underdue Murph (PhD), Leandre Berwa, Dr Abebe Geletu W. Selassie, Prof Kathy Lachenauer, Howdy Pierce, Me 😉
Dec 7, 2022
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Can data lie?

data science
statistics
When people often say that data does not lie, they are right. But what about our interpretations of the data, given of course, that the data cannot speak for itself?
Dec 1, 2022
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.

Welcome To My Blog

news
Literary tradition has it that St Thomas Aquinas exhorts us to fear the man that has read only one Book. Right as he may have been, I believe that what Aquinas did, in fact…
Oct 26, 2022
Ndze’dzenyuy Lemfon K.
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