When optimizing, a metric is like a lighthouse in heavy fog.

· Bits and Bobs 3/24/25
  • When optimizing, a metric is like a lighthouse in heavy fog.
    • It's a proxy for the underlying reality.
    • When the lighthouse is in the distance, it's a good thing to sight off.
      • It makes sure you're pointed in the right direction and not getting blown off course.
    • When the lighthouse is close, if you track it too closely you will crash in the shoals.
      • The lighthouse is on dry land, as you get asymptotically closer you will run aground.
    • In metrics, as you get asymptotically closer to the goal, you get dangerously lost, chasing things that don't matter.
    • The metric is always a proxy.
      • When you're far away, the proxy is closer to the real endpoint than other things, helping point you in the right direction.
      • When you're close, the proxy is farther away from the real endpoint than other things, pulling you away from the right direction.
    • Metrics need to be in the middle-distance to be true guides.