Agency isn’t fixed; it can be developed through intentional actions. The author argues that agency is about a “manifest determination to make things happen.” Drawing from personal experiences, including being a Supreme Court advocate and leading a pandemic medicine startup, they emphasize the significance of finding unique edges in various endeavors. This means embracing tasks others avoid, often due to discomfort, rather than merely outworking competitors. One effective strategy is to seek rejection deliberately. By applying for jobs or opportunities that seem out of reach, individuals can learn to separate rejection from their self-worth. The author shares a bold email pitch that led to a successful collaboration, highlighting the value of asking for what seems unreasonable. Gathering honest feedback is also essential; anonymity often encourages more candid responses, which can be crucial for personal growth. Networking widely increases the chances of unexpected opportunities. The author found that random meetings often led to fruitful collaborations, demonstrating that relevance doesn’t always predict usefulness. They also stress that most skills and traits are learnable, including agency itself. Embracing the discomfort of being inexperienced—referred to as the "moat of low status"—is necessary for growth. By accepting this phase, individuals can ultimately gain a significant advantage as they develop new skills.