Neither our economy nor the demands of a life well-lived dictate that everyone should aspire to be sitting alone at a desk in rural Narashino, crafting literature to the light of the rising sun. My growing concern, however, is that such real commitment to thought has become too rare.
I’ve read every post on Newport’s blog. I have both Deep Work and So Good They Can’t Ignore You, and Digital Minimalism is in my “priority” subset of my wishlist of books. (Yes, I am aware that I have problems.) But I’ll out myself: I’ve not read either of the two Newport books that I already have, and see no point brining the third into the mix until I do. But whining about my privileged-problem of having too many books, isn’t my theme here. Rather, I want to think about why is it “that such real commitment to thought has become too rare.” Because I totally agree that such is so.
(That’s all. I’m thinking about it, and now so are you.)
I often wish that I could just post a link with my scratch notes; if I did, this post would have been up two hours ago. But you come here to read full sentences, so it is the least I can provide. However, it is not that simple: while I am certainly not famous, I am lucky to have an audience. It is important for me to remember that I cannot write solely for myself, since other people might read it. No matter whether it is a longer article or just a quick link, I don’t want to further the spread of something that I believe to be false or unhelpful.
For me, the purpose of writing for my blog is to help me clarify my thinking; It’s a big part of my ongoing process of reflection. That said, I’m well aware that others are reading, and whenever possible I would like what I write to also be helpful to my readers. At the very least, I’d like it to not be unhelpful.
I’m pragmatic. I’ve had that hurled at me as a criticism on more than one occasion. But—hey, pragmatism—it’s important to understand why someone is being pragmatic. I’m pragmatic because I want to be understood, and I want to understand others. That’s as opposed to being pragmatic as a defensive maneuver. To be fair—look, more pragmatism—I enjoy deploying pragmatism for humor, but I’d like to think it’s self-evident when I do so.
Take for example the common adage, “You get what you pay for.” It’s understood that it’s not literally true in all cases; one can get swindled by an unscrupulous seller, but that’s not the point of the adage. The point, obviously, is that if you’re a cheap-skate and try to save too much, you end up getting crap. The pragmatist in me loves to point out that we can fix that adage so that it is literally true always, and makes clear the point. A more convoluted grammar serves better, “You don’t get what you don’t pay for.”
That’s my go-to explanation for pragmatism. Which of those versions is better? The first has simplicity and clarity, but it buries the lead and requires actual thought to get at the kernel of wisdom. The second puts the wisdom on the surface; but it’s a convoluted double-negative that makes one sound like a grammarian.
…at which point whomever I’m discussing pragmatism with is starting into the deep end of the thinking pool, and I point out: Bingo. The specific answer in this discussion doesn’t matter. You’ve now been, at least briefly in this dicussion, a pragmatist. Don’t we now understand each other better?
How does podcasting serve as a platform to connect deeply with people and uncover their unique stories?
Unearthing extraordinary personal tales through the lens of community and endurance.
She does 10 Ironman [races] in ten days, a little crazy… and I said to her: Look some people go to work from 9 to 5. You’re basically doing an Ironman from 9 to 5. And she’s like: Yeah, you get it.
~ Susanne Mueller (17:28)
The conversation explores the intersection of running and podcasting as ways to connect with people and share compelling stories. It begins by examining how shared activities like running foster community, especially during challenging times. Susanne highlights how training in groups and braving harsh conditions cultivates bonds that transcend the sport itself. This shared resilience is paralleled in podcasting, where personal stories are unearthed, often revealing unexpected insights about people’s lives and journeys.
The discussion also emphasizes the role of storytelling in podcasting, focusing on how unique questions can draw out previously untold stories. Susanne shares anecdotes about interviewing runners and other guests, noting that people often reveal personal details not usually shared in formal or public settings. The power of podcasting lies in its ability to humanize individuals, even those perceived as highly accomplished, and to create moments of genuine connection and surprise.
Takeaways
Podcasting as a tool — It serves as a platform to connect deeply with others and share impactful stories.
Running and community — Shared endurance activities create strong, lasting bonds among participants.
Personal storytelling — Uncovering unexpected and deeply personal anecdotes through thoughtful questions.
Language and expression — The importance of being concise and clear as a podcaster.
Humanizing the accomplished — Podcasting reveals the relatable, everyday aspects of even the most accomplished individuals.
Unique interview styles — Asking unconventional questions can lead to remarkable moments of insight.
Digital gardening is the work we do to make an organic mess less messy and more useful. It’s certainly not a new idea but I think it’s something that is becoming a major problem for may digital spelunkers. We’ve never had a greater variety of information inboxes and it has never been easier to capture new information into these boxes. The problem now is with recalling the information and making connections between it all.
Weatherhead goes on to list several specific problems, but not much in the way of solutions. And that’s perfectly fine; Having a clearly defined problem, (or two, or three,) demonstrates a lot of thinking and a lot of hard work has been done in search of a solution. We even have an adage for that: A problem well-defined is half-solved. He mentions in passing that a lot of his bookmarking, (saving, marking for later reading, staring, adding to lists, etc.,) is done as an aspiration. Becoming aware of this was a key turning point for me.
At some point, someone will carry the last of my worldly possessions… and deposit them in a dumpster. At some point, all of my digital files will be given a shrug and summarily deleted. I currently aspire to stop collecting things “for later” and instead use, read, compose, share, create and inspire now.
A shout-out to Alice who joins us this week. Welcome! :)
The front of my blog includes a random selection of testimonial quotes from readers of this email. It would be helpful if you’d hit reply and write something I could add to those testimonials.
Also, I’ve made a small addition to also show the tags for each of these items. After 10 years and 3,000+ posts, all my tagging along the way has proved well worth the time. If you’re curious, I have two pages for tags; One is an insane “all the tags” page, (there are 1,326 unique tags on my blog,) and the other is a more useful page of “tags with 10+ posts.The latter runs to about 100 tags and is an insightful glimpse into the sorts of things which interest me.
What inspires and sustains someone working behind the scenes in podcast production?
This conversation uncovers the struggles and joys of producing creative podcasts with purpose.
The team that I’m working with needs to be cool and needs to be on the same vibe as me, you know? It’s just not worth it to me, at this point, to be forcing myself into a box to work on a certain team.
~ Alexandra DiPalma (3:31)
This conversation explores the personal and professional challenges of working in podcast production. Topics include maintaining inspiration despite the workload, the importance of selecting projects that align with personal values, and the satisfaction of empowering underrepresented voices in the podcasting industry. Insights are shared about prioritizing teamwork and avoiding projects that lack alignment with one’s instincts or mission.
The discussion also touches on collaboration, emphasizing the value of working with peers at similar levels of experience. Alex reflects on how her perspective has shifted over the years, balancing passion with pragmatism, and remaining open to meaningful projects that may not offer immediate financial rewards. The metaphor of an upward spiral is used to illustrate growth and self-awareness, reinforcing themes of connection and the power of thoughtful framing.
Takeaways
Working behind the scenes — Challenges and rewards of producing podcasts as a creative process are explored.
Selecting the right projects — Importance of aligning with a project’s mission and trusting instincts to avoid pitfalls.
Empowering underrepresented voices — Focus on including diverse perspectives both on mic and in production roles.
Collaboration as a strategy — Value of working with peers at similar career stages for mutual growth.
Balancing passion and pragmatism — Navigating personal inspiration while maintaining professional sustainability.
Resources
Domino Sound — A podcast production company focused on amplifying underrepresented voices.
Food for Thought — A podcast hosted by queer, multiracial writers, produced by Domino Sound.
Zen Habits — Blog by Leo Babauta, referenced for the metaphor of the upward spiral of self-awareness.
Tim Ferriss Blog — Mentioned as the source of the “superpower” framing technique in the conversation.
What is the unique power of sound as a medium to connect with others and foster understanding?
The essence of podcasting lies in its ability to preserve authenticity and humanity.
I’ve gone through a career as an architect and as a builder, and acoustics are often overlooked […] I always have this dream of building the perfect bar, or the perfect restaurant, because I think the acoustics in those spaces are more important than anything else. That ability to be with somebody, but be in public, and acoustics can influence that dramatically— or make it a horrible experience.
~ Fred Martin Gutierrez (17:16)
The conversation begins with reflections on the unique emotional resonance of sound, emphasizing how podcasting enables connection through its focus on auditory experience. Sound’s unedited authenticity, as seen in music and live conversations, is contrasted with the more curated nature of other mediums. The importance of pauses and space in fostering deeper thought and connection is highlighted, both in podcasting and in writing.
The discussion transitions into technical aspects, such as the role of acoustics in spaces like bars and restaurants, where it can enhance or detract from experiences. The conversation also touches on podcasting as a tool for self-discovery and reflection, particularly during midlife, revealing how it offers an avenue for learning and personal growth. Finally, the talk explores the human connection fostered by shared experiences, whether through podcasts, music, or even reaction videos.
Takeaways
Sound as a medium — It fosters emotional resonance and provides unique space for thought.
Authenticity in podcasting — Unedited content often delivers deeper connections and richer experiences.
Acoustics in architecture — Thoughtful sound design transforms spaces and interpersonal dynamics.
Podcasting as self-reflection — It serves as a medium for learning and personal growth, especially in transitional life phases.
Human connection — Shared experiences, even through digital formats, reveal universal aspects of empathy and compassion.
The process of creation — Crafting high-quality audio requires deliberate effort and iterative refinement.
Inspired by a reader’s question to me, I thought I’d ask our followers on Facebook and Twitter for an answer to the question: What books would you recommend someone read to improve their general knowledge of the world.
I must say the number and quality of the responses overwhelmed me. The box Amazon just delivered reminds me that I ordered 9 books off this list.
I know there are too many books—old books, new books, red books, blue books … A friend of mine just published a book, Before You Say Anything, and Jiminy Cricket I’d love to read it— I hovered on the add-to-cart button. But I paused, managing to trigger my habit-change “wedge” of repeating: “simplfiy. simplify. simplify.” I digress.
I skimmed that list of books from Parrish and felt I should probably read every one of them. Instead—simplify. simplify. simplify.—I noted I’ve read several, have several more already in my possession, and several others on the wishlist. With a life-is-short shrug, I’m passing it along to you and moving on with my morning.
How can creative collaborations, like podcasting and music installations, drive personal growth, enhance understanding of one’s craft, and foster connections with an audience?
The challenges and rewards of collaborative artistry illuminate surprising pathways to personal development.
I would never have the courage to say things which I have the courage to say when I’m with Anna. Somehow the conversation just flows, and we actually discovered new levels of philosophy or whatever. We become courageous together much more than when we are alone.
~ Monika Manauskaite (15:00)
The conversation centers on the creative journeys of two classical musicians who use innovative projects, like podcasts and music installations, to explore self-discovery and audience engagement. Anna and Monika discuss how engaging with podcasting and vlogging has shifted their mindsets, exposing them to diverse perspectives and helping them grow personally and professionally. Their experiences reveal how artistic collaboration fosters mutual courage and enhances creative outputs, as seen in their ability to explore and express new ideas together.
I realized how much I’m learning. You know, after a few months I realized I’m exposed to so many different worldviews and so many different aspects of people’s lives, and I just felt, you know, a big improvement in my mindset in everyday life.
~ Anna Szalucka (2:15)
Monika and Anna highlight their music installation project, emphasizing its impact on their understanding of their audience. The project challenged stereotypes about young people’s disinterest in classical music, revealing instead a significant curiosity when accessibility barriers are removed. They also reflect on the role of collaboration in combating self-doubt, leveraging shared passion to overcome imposter syndrome and take bold creative steps.
Takeaways
Collaboration in artistry — Discusses how working with others amplifies creativity, courage, and productivity.
Audience engagement in classical music — Highlights how accessibility can attract younger audiences to classical performances.
Self-discovery through creative work — Explores how podcasting and vlogging can reveal personal insights and deepen one’s connection to their craft.
The role of mindset — Examines how adopting a collaborative or experimental mindset can drive innovation in creative projects.
Flow state in performance — Describes the unique dynamics of achieving flow during solo versus collaborative performances.
Combatting imposter syndrome — Emphasizes the value of shared passion in overcoming self-doubt and achieving personal growth.
Innovative concert formats — Presents the idea of interactive music installations as a reimagined classical concert experience.
How does podcasting foster personal growth, learning, and connection?
Compassion and empathy emerge as essential skills in podcasting and beyond.
I believe by making the show, you are really expanding. I’m expanding my consciousness.
~ Özlem Özkan (19:41)
The conversation centers on podcasting as a tool for exploration, learning, and connection. One of the key themes discussed is the value of preparation in podcasting. Özlem emphasizes the importance of deeply researching and understanding her guests to create meaningful conversations. This preparation leads to authentic exchanges, which highlight the importance of honesty and openness in both podcasting and life.
Another significant theme is the role of empathy and compassion in fostering authentic connections. The discussion touches on the challenges of being a guest or host and how people often strive for perfection, which can undermine their authenticity. Podcasting, Özlem notes, has helped her practice being themselves in various settings, whether in relationships, professional interactions, or creative pursuits. The conversation also examines how listening attentively allows for deeper understanding and helps create safe spaces where genuine connections flourish.
Takeaways
Podcasting as a learning tool — Emphasized as a method for both hosts and guests to grow and gain new perspectives.
Importance of preparation — Thorough preparation allows for better conversations and helps guests feel valued.
Authenticity in podcasting — Discussed as critical for creating meaningful and memorable episodes.
The role of empathy — Highlighted as essential for connecting with guests and understanding their perspectives.
Practical strategies for hosting — Includes pre-recording rituals like music to create a relaxed and open atmosphere.
Challenges of being a guest — Addressed how striving too hard to perform well can lead to inauthenticity.
Listening as a skill — Listening attentively is portrayed as key to expanding understanding and fostering connection.
Podcasting as life practice — Lessons learned from podcasting extend into personal growth and daily interactions.
Resources
The Bridging Podcast — Özlem’s podcast aimed at connecting people and exploring human stories.
How does a supportive community influence the success and motivation of podcasters?
Shared experiences and mutual encouragement shape the journey of podcasting beginners.
The magic of sound comes through… it surprises you every time.
~ Bryon Howard (9:55)
The conversation highlights the impact of community in the podcasting journey, focusing on how collaboration and mutual encouragement help creators persevere through challenges. Bryon and Craig discuss the importance of connections formed during a podcasting workshop, noting how these relationships motivated them to continue their work despite initial uncertainties. Bryon reflects on how a few key individuals in his network were instrumental in his success.
Bryon also examine the technical and emotional aspects of podcasting. The discussion includes overcoming imposter syndrome through listener feedback, practical tips for in-person and virtual recording sessions, and the value of genuine interactions. Bryon explores how podcasting, even as a hobby, can provide meaningful personal and professional growth.
Takeaways
Community as a motivator — The support and warmth of a like-minded group play a significant role in sustaining podcasters’ efforts.
Importance of listener feedback — Positive feedback, even when sparse, can validate efforts and inspire continued work.
Recording in-person vs. virtual — In-person recordings enhance shared experiences and natural timing, creating a richer connection.
Balancing passion and practicality — Podcasting can be pursued as both a hobby and a professional tool, with room for curiosity and personal interests.
Managing challenges rationally — Rational approaches to logistical and health concerns, such as in-person recording during a pandemic, ensure smooth execution.
A highly influential book for me in designing Automattic was Daniel Pink’s Drive, where he eloquently introduces the three things that really matter in motivating people: mastery, purpose, and autonomy. Mastery is the urge to get better skills. Purpose is the desire to do something that has meaning, that’s bigger than yourself. These first two principles physically co-located companies can be great at. But the third, autonomy, is where even the best in-office company can never match a Level 4 or above distributed company.
I’ve read and listened to a bunch of stuff from Mullenweg and he’s consistently someone with his head on straight and his priorities—particularly those related to the many people working for his company—in order. If you just went, “Matt who?” definitely read that little post, and then, perhaps, dip into his podcast, Distributed. (Maybe try the episode, Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg on building a fully distributed company, to get a good taste.)
The great biographer Robert Caro once said, “Power doesn’t always corrupt, but power always reveals.” Perhaps the same is true of the most powerful networks in human history.
Social media has not corrupted us, it’s merely revealed who we always were.
There’s a lot of good—writing, concepts, anecdote, data—in this article. But the thing that leapt out at me was something I’d already known, but seem to have forgotten… or, if not fully forgotten, I’d failed to connect it to other things in my model of the world: The idea of the silent majority.
About 90% of the people participating on social networks, are not even participating. They’re simply observing. It turns out that the other 10% are the people with extreme views; not “blow stuff up” extreme, but simply more towards the opposing ends of whatever spectrum of views you care to consider.
Two things to consider: First, boy howdy guilty as charged! I’m on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn— but the only content I post is related to my projects. I don’t engage with anything, reshare… or even, really, participate unless it’s related to a project. *face palm* Woa! I’m literally a member of the silent majority. Perhaps you are to? If 10 of you are reading, then 9 of you are just like me.
Second, because math! If you look at the stream we all like to say, “it’s endless!” Right. There must be thousands of posts, right? I’ll pause while you do math… right. If there are only thousands of posts for me to see, I’m clearly not seeing all the activity from the millions of people. Sure, some of that is the platform filtering, but I have the feeling that the numbers hold true: If everyone posted a lot we’d have thousands of times more stuff flying around.
I believe the standard how-to book contains too much new stuff for a human brain to take on board once, or at least it does for my brain. Implementing a single habit – flossing before bed, for example – is something most people can do if they’re really focusing on it, but even that is hard. Converting your workday into the full-bore Pomodoro system, or (God help you) the GTD system, represents a dozen or more habits that all have to come online more or less at the same time.
This is an unusual post from Cain. It is very much nuts-and-bolts material—ending in a pitch for a book of his own—rather than his usual philosophical pontifications. To his observation quoted above I’d like to add the following: If I am able to find just one good idea in a book which I can implement, then I get very excited.
For example, one can read many books and come away with new ideas. (Man’s Search for Meaning, or Leaves of Grass, spring to mind as examples.) But the vast majority of books do not contain actionable things that can be implemented to make a difference in your life. An idea like, “be the change you want to see in the world,” is sublime. But how—be specific in your thinking here—do I do that? There are many examples: “Practice gratitude.” How, exactly? And compare that to the same idea, in actionable form: “Begin each day by writing down three things for which you are grateful.”
I’m not trying to denigrate great ideas. I’m trying to explain my sheer delight when I do find a great idea which is readily attemptable. Many of those actionable ideas still fall by the wayside, but a few of them have really stuck and served me well.
Risk is everywhere. If you’re not a climber, I’d venture to guess that you regularly ride in automobiles, which is the most dangerous thing you regularly do. It’s not particularly risky—the chances of catastrophe are low. And it’s a risk I’m comfortable with. Comfortable in both senses: I’ve rationally assessed the risk and do what I can to reduce that risk, and I’ve been exposed to the risk so often that it no longer evinces a visceral reaction.
Certainly, in climbing the objective hazards loom larger; when you’re looking down on large birds cruising the ridge-lift, your physical perspective shifts your mental perspective on life. But there are objective hazards everywhere. For me, I like to do everything reasonable to reduce all of the risks, but knowing that the risks exist— spending some time each day sitting with those risks, knowing I cannot fully eliminate all of them— that’s living.
In part, Faraday credits his own “inventing the method of invention” to reading Watts’s books, particularly The Improvement of the Mind — a self improvement guide a few centuries before the internet. Watts recommended keeping a commonplace book to record facts, and Faraday did. Watts recommended he be guided by observed facts, and Faraday was. Watts recommended finding a great teacher, and Faraday starting attending lectures.
I’m a vigorous agreer with Will Smith’s comments about reading, (and I believe him regarding running but my body is not yet on board.) I hope that reading this book is a wonderful exercise in, “I already knew that. And that. And also that.” However, my current traipsing through, A College Manual of Rhetoric has proven to be a font of—apparently—long forgotten by most everyone, gems. As such, I’m willing to bet my hoped-for reading of, The Improvement of the Mind will turn out similarly.
How can storytelling and purpose be effectively integrated into business and podcasting to create meaningful impact?
Explore the transformative power of storytelling for purpose-driven leaders and entrepreneurs.
I don’t know if it’s introverts or extroverts, or necessarily these characterizations. But I think that there are people that are generally kind of thinking really big picture, and maybe community-oriented. But they have to be paired up with these implementors, and these ‘takers’—as I call them—to bring this stuff to life. I keep seeing this pattern in a lot of different places, and people use a lot of different language to describe them.
~ Karen Bailey (10:18)
The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating storytelling into business and podcasting, focusing on its ability to make abstract concepts like purpose tangible and actionable. Storytelling is framed as a tool not just for engagement but for education and leadership, offering insights into how businesses can clarify their purpose and create meaningful impacts on their communities and stakeholders. Karen shares her personal journey from blogging about purpose to podcasting, highlighting how audio storytelling allowed for richer, more dynamic sharing of ideas.
The conversation also explores the characteristics of purpose-driven leadership and the dynamic between “idea makers” and “idea takers.” Emphasis is placed on the synergy between these roles, with practical examples of how they complement each other in successful businesses. The value of collaboration, community, and accountability among podcasters is discussed as a key driver for overcoming challenges and achieving goals. The exchange concludes with reflections on the importance of clarity and intentionality in both podcasting and broader business efforts.
Takeaways
Storytelling in business — It serves as a tool for making purpose more tangible and relatable.
Shifting market expectations — Consumers and employees increasingly value purpose-driven organizations.
Synergy between roles — The interplay of “idea makers” and “idea takers” is crucial for implementing visions.
Purpose-driven podcasting — Audio storytelling enriches the ability to share diverse voices and insights.
Community and accountability — Connecting with peers helps overcome challenges and fosters growth.
Constraints and creativity — Both freedom and restrictions can stimulate innovative thinking.
Alignment and action — Clarifying and aligning purpose with actions enhances impact on communities.
Resources
Alignd on Purpose — Karen’s consulting firm helping business owners define their purpose and align their organization around it.
Diet modulates weight. Nutrition quality will improve how fast you lose or gain weight. Exercise modulates body composition. Exercise intensity will improve how fast your body composition changes.
Frankly, diet and exercise are topics that require a lifetime of study. The four sentences above—which I’ve reordered, but not otherwise edited—are as simple as I’d be willing to go in a description of “diet and exercise.” Fortunately, Low goes on. Much farther on.
I’ve tried a lot of things, and I’m confident that while several of them were turning points for me, not a single one of them is a panacea. In a very real sense, this meat-bag is nothing more than a moderately complex, space ship for my consciousness. It’s dented, sure, but it has a lot of good miles left on it.
How can podcasting serve as a tool for musicians to grow their audience, overcome challenges, and share their personal and professional journeys?
Exploring the intersection of music, entrepreneurship, and mental health highlights new paths for creative growth.
I think the way that musicians can use podcasting to their advantage is by talking about other subjects… other than trying to sell their music.
~ Simon Christopher Pellett (13:53)
The conversation examines how musicians can leverage podcasting to enhance their careers, foster deeper connections with their audiences, and navigate challenges in the music industry. Simon discusses the evolving landscape of creative media and entrepreneurship, emphasizing how podcasting allows artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers, explore diverse topics, and reach new audiences. Examples highlight the importance of reframing perspectives and embracing opportunities for growth, even in challenging circumstances.
Mental health emerges as a significant theme, with reflections on how personal struggles can shape professional journeys. The conversation touches on the Simon’s own experiences with anxiety and depression, showing how podcasting became a tool for self-expression and connection. Practical advice for musicians includes the benefits of sharing diverse interests, collaborating with a team, and finding unique ways to market their work.
Takeaways
Using podcasting for connection — Musicians can connect with audiences by exploring personal and professional stories beyond their music.
Breaking down barriers — Podcasting removes gatekeepers, offering direct access to audiences and creative freedom.
Reframing success — Shifting perspectives from single big breaks to long-term, consistent efforts helps musicians approach success realistically.
Mental health awareness — Discussing mental health reduces stigma and fosters a sense of community and understanding.
Team collaboration — Successful musical projects benefit from clear communication and delegation of roles among team members.
Marketing innovation — Sharing interests beyond music, like food or sports, helps artists engage audiences creatively and broaden their reach.
Entrepreneurial mindset — Applying business principles and leveraging unique opportunities allows musicians to sustain their careers.
The problem is that our New Tools are winning the battle of attention. We’ve gotten to the point where the tools use us as much as we use them. This new reality means we need to re-examine our relationship with our New Tools.
Also see, Jaron Lanier‘s comments about the Internet in general and social networks in particular. I consider myself fully innoculated against information overload and against my tools using me.
And yet, my mind wanders. I sit down to try to write out a blog post or three, and I find myself doing other things. The majority of my disruptions these days are simply ducking into my various projects and messaging platforms. The problem is that when I do, there’s always something to do. It’s not some inifite scroll that catches my eye, but rather a new message—from one of dozens of ongoing conversations—or something I spot which can be improved.
It’s not enough to simply do only productive things. No rather, I actually do far too many different productive things. A minute here replying to this person, two minutes there improving this little feature, 5 minutes writing a bug report, 10 minutes responding to a product vendor, … where was I? Right, trying to write this blog post.