About 70,000 or so years ago, our DNA showed a mutation (Harari claims we don’t know quite why) which allowed us to make a leap that no other species, human or otherwise, was able to make. We began to cooperate flexibly, in large groups, with an extremely complex and versatile language. If there is a secret to our success—and remember, success in nature is survival—It was that our brains developed to communicate.
Sapiens by Y N Hurari has been on my to-read pile for ages. It’s currently aged its way to the no-seriously-I’m-not-kidding pile of books that are near my desk. The run-of-the-mill to-read pile is several bookcases that live in another room.
And the clock is ticking. The weeks—if one lives to 76, one gets 4,000 weeks—tick by and my collection of to-listen-to podcast episodes (I’ve given up; There are no shows that I subscribe to, pretending I’ll listen to every episode) and my to-read books continues to grow. I need to stop screwing around trying to do things and make a living, and instead get back to listening and reading. Chicken and egg problem, that is.
Total efficiency constrains us. We become super invested in maintaining the status quo because that is where we excel. Innovation is a threat. Change is terrifying. Being perfect at something is dangerous if it’s the only thing you can do.
Change is good. (Although, Don Draper’s comment stands, making a different point.) Today I’m making a big change to some of my personal routines. I want different results than I’m currently getting… or pessimistic-me would say, I want some results rather than the none I’m currently getting. I’m not going to dive into what exactly I’m changing.
Instead, I want to touch on the how I’m changing things. I imagined a blank slate— a day with nothing. Then, what’s something I’d like to do? Okay, let’s put that into my day, (or week, month, life, etc..) Then, what’s something I keep “falling into?” …some habit that I see repeating, which I want to avoid. Okay, put something in which blocks that habit. One might have some non-negotiable blocks. (I’ll point out that those are not truly non-negotiable. They’re just costly to change.) Okay, I’ll put those back into my day.
The hard part is not putting too much back in. It’s the same as with packing my bag for a trip. I set out what I want to take. Then I pack the bag. I assess the degree of over-stuffage. (Notice the verb “to lug” lies within “luggage.”) Next, I unpack the bag, and reduce things. Finally, I repack the bag.
So, when is the last time you dumped out your luggage?
There was, or will be, a last time for everything you do, from climbing a tree to changing a diaper, and living with a practiced awareness of that fact can make even the most routine day feel like it’s bursting with blessings. Of all the lasting takeaways from my periodic dives into Stoicism, this is the one that has enhanced my life the most.
This is by far the most important thing I’ve learned in my several decades. I’ve written about this previously, try my “perspective” tag for some tastes, but this item bears endless repeating. Do it as if it is the last time. Think of it, in the moment, as if it is the last time. And for a bonus multiplier—but don’t do this too often or you get disappointed too—think about that thing you’re about to do, the same way. Tomorrow, when I ____ , that will be the last time I get to _____ .
This is a ubiquitous problem. Perhaps you’ve heard the phrase, “stuck in the doldrums“? It’s a literal place where there isn’t much wind, and thus the bane of old-timey sailors. But the metaphorical doldrums are just as real. You can avoid the literal doldrums. You can at best only try to avoid the metaphorical ones. Whether it’s literal or metaphor though, the way out is the same: Concerted, intentional effort to go somewhere else.
It took me far too long to learn this lesson. Or, perhaps I should practice improving my self-talk: I’m so glad I understand this now. For a couple months early in 2022 I had a sticky-note about “urgency?” on my monitor. That had a profound effect on me. Is the house on fire? …okay, then where is the urgency coming from? Hint, Craig: You brought the urgency to the situation.
But, why? Why does the urgency creep in for me? I make long (long loong) arguments out in my mind about how each of the things that I’m doing, represents an intentional choice. At one time, I used to allow other people to choose for me. (I know, right… That’s nuts.) But these days, I’m working out the lesson that just because I choose, that doesn’t mean it’s a good choice. One choice, two choices, three choices, four, five, six… and the day is over-full. Quick! All these things need to be done—I chose them. Hello, urgency.
What insights can be gained about the culture, practice, and academic study of Parkour?
The conversation explores how Parkour evolved into a subject of academic research and its broader cultural implications.
I just got so interested in Parkour that I tried to spin every single project of any kind that I did, towards Parkour. Because I realized there was no— there’s hardly any research written about it at all.
~ Damien Puddle (3:50)
The conversation covers the cultural and academic dimensions of Parkour, including its growth as a global practice. Parkour’s physical techniques are explored, particularly how they contribute to biomechanical understanding and injury prevention. This ties into broader academic efforts to document and analyze Parkour, positioning it as a boundary object uniting diverse interpretations.
Attention is given to the social and philosophical aspects of Parkour. These include its global adoption, differences in regional practices, and how practitioners perceive and engage with the discipline. The conversation concludes with reflections on the broader significance of Parkour as both a personal journey and a collective cultural phenomenon.
Takeaways
Parkour as a boundary object — It unites various interpretations and perspectives across cultural and personal practices.
Regional Parkour variations — Different communities shape the practice in unique ways.
Intersection with academia — The conversation highlights how Parkour has become a legitimate subject for academic research.
Biomechanics and movement — Parkour’s techniques provide insights into safe and efficient movement practices.
Philosophical underpinnings — The practice offers opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth.
Globalization of Parkour — The spread of Parkour highlights its adaptability and universal appeal.
Community engagement — Volunteering and contributing to organizations enrich the practice beyond physical training.
Resources
Boundary Object Theory — A sociological framework discussed as a lens for understanding Parkour’s diversity.
How do personal approaches to podcasting, storytelling, and authenticity evolve over time and influence podcast production?
A storyteller shares insights on transitioning from solo episodes to engaging interviews.
If it’s not the real me— If it’s not something I love to do, then it won’t be authentic enough to actually go forward with it.
~ Aaradhya Tiwari (8:46)
The conversation explores the evolution of podcasting as a personal and creative medium. Aaradhya reflects on the transition from solo episodes to guest interviews, emphasizing the challenge of overcoming initial fears of rejection and the perfectionist tendencies that often accompany such projects. The importance of authenticity in podcasting is a recurring theme, with a focus on how genuine connections and natural conversations enhance the listening experience.
A mindfulness approach to creativity also features prominently. Observing daily life and being present in the moment are identified as essential practices for sparking creativity and storytelling. The discussion also touches on navigating differences in perspectives during interviews and how such exchanges can enrich a podcaster’s understanding and production quality.
Takeaways
Mindset shifts — Moving past the fear of rejection is a key step in starting and maintaining a podcast.
Perfectionism in podcasting — Striving for authenticity can help overcome the paralysis of perfection.
Storytelling as a foundation — Stories serve as a universal element that bridges differences and enriches content.
Mindfulness practices — Observing surroundings with intent enhances creativity and inspiration.
Adaptability in interviews — Acknowledging and respecting differing perspectives can lead to richer, more meaningful conversations.
Authenticity and passion — Staying true to oneself ensures the podcast remains genuine and engaging.
Resources
This is Marketing — Seth Godin’s book exploring authentic approaches to marketing and storytelling.
There comes a moment in doing your reading where new work begins to rhyme. When you start to see the connections. When you understand who influenced the person you’re engaging with right now.
I find it difficult to figure out when to shift from empty-cup, learn-everything mode into the mastery mode. Godin’s insight about “rhyming” strikes me as a great test. In the beginning of some new learning adventure, everything is new and everything is surprising. The idea of noticing when a lot of things start to rhyme… of noticing when you can tell who or what influenced this thing you’re currently studying… that is when you notice that you have shifted into the mastery level of practice. Mastery does not—not by a long shot!—mean you are done. It’s more like the point where the airplane pivots and leaps into the sky: Now I am ready to begin my own journey.
The History of Philosophy is an interactive tool enabling users to dig into a visual timeline of 2,500 years of philosophical thought and discover lines of agreement and divergence.
I glanced at this when it appeared in my RSS feed and I had two simultaneous thoughts: “Wow, I should really dig into—” And, “RUN AWAY!” Because, this is exactly the sort of maximally complicated data visualization that I would create.
Here is what we seem to have forgotten: America is not some finished work or failed project but an ongoing experiment. And it is an experiment that, by design, will never end. If parts of the machine are broken, then the responsibility of citizens is to fix the machine—not throw it away.
…and I’ll go on to add that it’s interesting how, through loops and curly-Q’s, I often find myself at the same place. There’s a copy of The American Idea: The Best of The Atlantic Monthly in my currently-reading stack.
Embracing a growth mindset means to get pleasure out of changing for the better (inward rewarding) instead of getting pleasure
in being praised (outward rewarding.) […] to seek as many opportunities to learn as possible is the most reliable long-term growth strategy.
Ahrens of course discusses, and gives credit where credit is due, to Carol Dweck’s ideas. (See Dweck’s, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.) Her comment about “reliable long-term growth strategy” struck me as insightful. Her use of, “most reliable,” is an understatement. What other strategy would even be reliable?
If I want to grow, I need to learn. If I want to learn, I need to maximize those opportunities.
By definition LC is about dietary carbohydrate restriction. If you are reducing carbohydrates, your proportional intake of protein or fat, or both, will go up. While I don’t think there is anything wrong with a high fat diet, it seems to me that the true advantage of LC may be in how protein is allocated, which appears to contribute to a better body composition.
Zoinks! This short article is dense. I read each paragraph. Then slowly reread the paragraph, squinting slightly and turning each sentence over in my mind. It feels like there’s at least one actionable-item, (something to start doing, or something to stop doing,) in every paragraph. I’ve spent a lot of time in recent years trying to learn what I can about all the things in this article. It’s a beautiful assembly that backs up the thesis in the first paragraph, (which is quoted entirely above.)
This is where the spacing effect comes in. It’s a wildly useful phenomenon: we are better able to recall information and concepts if we learn them in multiple, spread-out sessions. We can leverage this effect by using spaced repetition to slowly learn almost anything.
It’s funny how ideas percolate in the brain. This article and another one, (back on the 29th, which is further down in this weekly email,) passed through my radar within a couple of weeks. (I can tell because my general digital reading pile is a FIFO queue.) They were read a few times, but again in relative closeness in time. And they both ended up making the cut to be blog posts.
How can podcasting serve as a platform for self-expression and meaningful connections while addressing challenges like monetization and content creation?
Behind every podcast lies a blend of creative passion and logistical hurdles.
If I can watch somebody else’s process of finding their way then that can help me in mine as well.
~ Gaelen Poage (4:49)
The conversation explores the evolution of podcasting as a medium for self-expression and connection. Discussions center on the shift from traditional written content to spoken storytelling and how podcasting allows individuals to explore their thought processes in real time. Gaelen emphasizes the value of sharing raw, unpolished processes, enabling listeners to find inspiration and clarity in their own journeys. This dynamic format contrasts with polished, scripted content, highlighting the richness of podcasting as an art form.
Challenges like monetization and the logistics of podcast production are also addressed. The difficulty of sustaining a podcast financially without compromising creative integrity is a recurring theme. Gaelen discusses using podcasting as a tool to complement other ventures, such as coaching or community-building, rather than a primary source of income. This multifaceted approach underscores the balance between passion for content creation and practical necessities.
Takeaways
Navigating self-expression through podcasting — Sharing unfiltered processes can inspire and guide others.
Building connections through storytelling — Podcasting allows creators to foster relationships with audiences.
Monetization challenges in podcasting — Finding ways to financially sustain podcasts without compromising authenticity.
The role of podcasting in personal development — Using the medium to process and refine ideas.
Balancing artistry and practicality — Managing the technical and logistical aspects of podcast production.
Podcasting as a complementary tool — Leveraging podcasts to enhance other professional or personal ventures.
Resources
Not Lost in the Crowd — Gaelen’s podcast focused on helping people find their voice and audience.
Descript — A transcription and editing tool mentioned as a way to streamline podcast production.
Make Noise — Eric Nuzum’s book provides a framework for developing concise descriptions for podcasts.
How do personal experiences and challenges shape an individual’s approach to movement practices and training?
Exploring the intersection of circus arts, Parkour, and fear-facing techniques reveals unique approaches to movement.
I feel [my rail work] is like somewhere— I think, a middle ground because it connects both what I used to do in the air, and what I do on the floor.
~ AnnSofie Svensson (1:44)
The conversation explores the interplay between different movement disciplines, highlighting how unique environments and personal experiences influence training approaches. Topics include adapting Parkour to locations with limited infrastructure, integrating circus arts with traditional movement practices, and balancing personal challenges like fear and overcommitment.
A strong focus is placed on the social versus individual aspects of training. While some movement is shared socially, other practices stem from isolation, driven by a lack of community or environmental factors. The discussion also touches on broader themes, such as facing fears, redefining consistency, and finding humor in challenges. AnnSofie shares insights into building movement opportunities in remote areas and reflects on the intersection of personal growth and physical exploration.
Takeaways
Facing fears — Overcoming personal barriers shapes both physical and mental aspects of training.
Adapting environments — Movement practices change based on available resources and architecture.
Consistency challenges — Staying committed to one discipline is difficult amid diverse interests.
Social versus solo training — Social interactions bring energy, but solo training often dominates.
Balancing disciplines — Integrating multiple movement forms requires thoughtful prioritization.
Risk and injury — Excitement can lead to injury, emphasizing the need for restraint and awareness.
Creativity in isolation — Building training spaces in remote areas fosters unique approaches.
Movement as storytelling — Sharing practices always involves filtering and storytelling elements.
Winter constraints — Weather significantly impacts training possibilities and discipline focus.
Resources
The Man from Earth (2007) — A thought-provoking science fiction film about a professor’s mysterious past.
How do communication strategies and frameworks influence personal and professional growth, particularly in podcasting and coaching?
Authenticity and personal branding redefine success in communication and podcasting.
These people have a growth mindset, and they are clearly ambitious and they know that they are probably done with the majority of their—if not all of their—formal quote-unquote education in terms of going to University or College. But they also look around, and they’re like: ‘I got more in me.’
~ Andrea Wojnicki (2:24)
The conversation examines the significance of communication frameworks in personal and professional settings. It begins by highlighting the traits of ambitious individuals with growth mindsets who seek to refine their communication skills, focusing on confidence, storytelling, and practical frameworks. Andrea underscores the value of establishing habits and linking small, consistent actions to larger goals of self-improvement.
The discussion moves to challenges faced by podcasters, especially those who struggle with confidence and imposter syndrome. Emerging podcasters often lack the self-assurance they exhibit in their primary careers when transitioning into podcasting. Andrea emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset to navigate such hurdles, explaining how curiosity and openness can help individuals learn and adapt effectively. Personal branding is also explored as a tool for authenticity and transformation rather than a means of self-promotion.
Takeaways
Growth mindset — A powerful tool for overcoming challenges and fostering curiosity in professional and personal contexts.
Communication as a skill — Critical for self-improvement, with frameworks and habits helping to streamline effective interactions.
Confidence building — Strategies to address imposter syndrome and enhance self-assurance, particularly in new endeavors like podcasting.
Personal branding — An authentic approach to creating a lasting and genuine impression, not merely self-promotion.
Speaking vs. listening — Finding the balance between sharing ideas and allowing space for others to contribute.
Adaptation and reflection — The importance of learning from experiences and adjusting strategies based on outcomes.
Interpersonal dynamics — Understanding the role of authentic engagement in fostering meaningful conversations.
Resources
Talk About Talk podcast — Andrea’s platform for communication skills training, focusing on interpersonal communication and professional growth.
It’s harder to see it when we’re the ones who are complaining so often. And in fact, in my experience most of us are in the habit of complaining, either out loud or to ourselves. Myself included.
I am not a complainer. (I’m not pushing back on Babauta’s post. It’s excellent, as usual.) If you spot me complaining, I’d appreciate being called out. Certainly, there was a time when I complained, but it is not now.
Being a “suggester” correlates with being a complainer. People who complain also suggest. “You should do that this way…” “This would be better with more…” “If I was in charge I would…” Ridding oneself of one of these flaws, will make the other intolerable, which begins the work of ridding oneself of the other.
Although plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of plantar heel pain, it’s not the only diagnosis. In fact, plantar heel pain that does not respond to conservative treatment is usually not plantar fasciitis.
How does the process of starting a podcast evolve for someone navigating the challenges of being a beginner?
A self-proclaimed beginner embraces the unexpected joys and challenges of podcasting.
[…] I’ve found that going through those steps leads to some development professionally, or personally. You can’t hide from that. So even if you don’t come out with a podcast, you’re still going to come out with that.
~ Samantha Schuffenecker (18:18)
The conversation begins with reflections on the challenges of starting a podcast, emphasizing the beginner’s mindset and the value of making mistakes as part of the learning process. The discussion touches on the technical aspects of podcasting, such as audio editing and selecting music, which unexpectedly spark creativity and a deeper appreciation for the craft. A recurring theme is how these technical challenges can overshadow the original purpose of the podcast, leading to the realization that content and connection with guests should take priority.
Another topic explored is the evolution of the podcast’s concept. Samantha shares how initial ideas around interviewing athletes transformed into a broader interest in connecting with diverse individuals, reflecting a shift from competition to connection. The conversation also highlights the struggle of choosing a title that encapsulates the podcast’s vision, underscoring how clarity in branding can shape a creator’s confidence and direction.
Takeaways
The beginner’s mindset — Mistakes and uncertainty are essential parts of the learning process in podcasting.
Audio editing as discovery — The process of editing can unlock unexpected creativity and self-improvement.
The challenge of clarity — Finding a title for a podcast can be a process of self-discovery and refinement.
From competition to connection — Podcasting can evolve beyond initial goals to focus on meaningful conversations.
Hiding in technicalities — It’s easy to get lost in technical aspects, but focusing on the core purpose of storytelling is key.
Professional and personal growth — The act of podcasting, even without publishing, fosters significant development.
Fear of starting — Taking the first steps in podcasting is often the hardest but most rewarding part.
Resources
Zencastr — A platform for recording high-quality audio and video for podcasts.
SquadCast and Riverside — Additional podcast recording platforms with similar capabilities.
Akimbo Workshops — A reference to workshops taken by the guest, likely related to creative processes and podcasting.
Spaced repetition comes up in discussions of optimal learning. Once one learns something, it’s best to review it after a period of time, then a second review, third, etc.. with the time between the reviews increasing. There are class structures and software packages which implement this. (Randomly over the years I’ve even considered dumping everything I ever wanted to learn into such a system.)
Part of the power of the spacing is that you don’t come to expect when a particular bit of information will be reviewed. “Oh! I need that knowledge, I guess it is important.” It all apparently causes the brain to not allow the knowledge to expire and be lost. I’ve discovered that my regular usage of the slipbox is randomly, (in the sense that I have no sense of what or when to expect to bump into an idea again,) reminding me of things.
For example, I had a slip, “4c2se1j” with an idea for a blog post on it. As I was writing the post, which involved Sönke Ahrens, I flipped to her name in the slipbox to add this slip’s address to things related to her. She’s on the slip at “4c1ae(3)”. (Because “4c1ae” overflowed to a second “4c1ae(2)” and then third slip “4c1ae(3)”.) Next to her name I added “4c2se1j”. Your eyes may have glassed over, but that’s just another random moment in my using the slipbox—nothing particularly interesting there.
While doing that, my eyes flashed across two addresses already on Ahren’s line…
First, “2ho1”. Just four characters, but I instantly recognized the “2” as a book reference, and Ahren’s book is “HOw to take smart notes.” Several of the ideas from the book flashed through my mind.
Second, “4c2ko1a”. That looks gnarly, but “4c2” is themes. “4c2ko” then must be a word with first-letter K, and first-vowel O, and it has to be related to Ahrens? …that’s easy. That would be the slip for “KnOwledge systems”. I don’t know for sure (without looking) what’s on “4c2ko1a” but lots of ideas related to knowledge systems popped into my mind.
Don’t be distracted by my insane, paper-slips in physical-boxes system. There are countless ways to take notes. (Ahrens has a lot of great stuff to say about that, and I’d argue she has The stuff to say about it.) My point here is that by taking notes into a system that is designed to help me think—not tell me how to think—it does in fact help me think and helps me learn and remember.