8Reducing Friction: Minimizing Wasted Effort

I frequently take long road trips to and from Nashville, and I often find myself critiquing highway infrastructure—specifically, the shocking difference when you cross a state line.

If you find yourself heading east on Interstate 24 in southwestern Kentucky, you will eventually cross over into Tennessee. I love this distinct area because the portion of the road in Kentucky is a bumpy mess.

Initially, you may not necessarily notice the dilapidated condition of the road were it not for the dramatic difference just a few miles away.

As soon as you cross into Tennessee on your way toward Nashville, the sun is a little brighter, the trees lining the road are a little greener, and the road is miraculously smoother.

Every vehicle begins to drive faster, the friction on the road disappears, and you are greeted with a large “Welcome to Tennessee” sign that directs to you a beautiful visitor's center.

The rest of the drive into the city is amazing. It is fast, clean, and highly efficient, and I am sure I would not appreciate this specific section of road were it not for the pervasive bumps, potholes, and missing paint on the Kentucky side (sorry, Kentucky).

The clear difference between one state's highway maintenance and another's is the difference between a rough ride and smooth sailing—between dodging bullets and stepping on the gas—between obnoxious friction and beautiful harmony.

Friction is slowing you down.

Bumps in the road are delaying ...

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