Going for the Moonshot, Introduction

This is the introductory post for Going for the Moonshot, one of the Seven Deadly Stupidities.

When we talk about a moonshot, what we really mean is not aiming high, but aiming for the moon. Setting objectives so high that they appear to be unattainable or at least, unrealistic.

Moonshot thinking may sound dynamic and even romantic. The problem is that emotional and impulsive thinking takes over and we buy into the “vision,” whatever it may be. Yes, some moonshots do work out, but almost all moonshots are driven by magical thinking and hoping for perfect alignment of the stars. In reality, going for the moonshot is an extremely low-probability scenario and will likely fail.

When we examine more closely the “inventions” and “moonshots” of others, we observe a pattern. Despite claims made by sponsors and participants, many moonshots are not moonshots at all, but are incremental improvements on existing technologies.

Most importantly, when embarking on a Tectonic Decision like a Moonshot, it must be done in an environment that can not only withstand a Moonshot gone wrong but be able to fund and support the Moonshot without conflicting priorities.