The Plumb: Stating the Objective and Acting in Alignment
Download MP3This episode integrates the Plumb as a practical decision test, using the “nice guy finishes last” pattern as a concrete example. The focus is on how unstated objectives and misaligned behavior pull people out of plumb, and how explicitly naming what you want restores grounding, agency, and honesty.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Many pro-social behaviors are driven by unstated objectives.
- “Nice guy” behavior often trades clarity for implied social pressure.
- Misalignment occurs when behavior is not visibly connected to a stated goal.
- Naming what you want removes resentment and martyrdom.
- The Plumb can be used in real time to test whether behavior can actually produce the desired outcome.
💬 Featured Quotes
- “Nice guys finishing last is a plumb problem.” (1:06–1:13)
- “It is a misapplication of behaviors to achieve an unstated outcome.” (1:13–1:18)
- “They are trying to do the right thing in order to achieve an outcome.” (1:26–1:39)
- “There is a disconnect somewhere in the line.” (1:39–1:47)
- “The unstated expectation… that I was going to exchange this behavior for some form of social capital.” (2:18–2:37)
- “That unstated objective is the core of the nice guy problem.” (2:41–2:46)
- “That’s not plumb behavior and it’s not building plumb relationships.” (3:42–3:46)
- “First things first, state what you want.” (4:15–4:21)
- “That’s going to solve 99% of your problems.” (4:21–4:29)
- “Stop trying to expect the world… to become a mind reader.” (5:23–5:29)
- “Figure out what it is you want.” (5:53–5:55)
- “Is the behavior I’m undertaking able to create that outcome?” (6:10–6:14)
- “If the answer is no, you’re operating out of plumb.” (6:14–6:19)
Creators and Guests
Host
Brian Mattocks
Host and Founder of A Mason's Work - a podcast designed to help you use symbolism to grow. He's been working in the craft for over a decade and served as WM, trustee, and sat in every appointed chair in a lodge - at least once :D
