On this episode of Focused, Mike and I are joined by Cat Mulvihill to look at a frustrating productivity problem: having a good system and still not doing the work. Cat separates the reasons we get stuck into three categories, logical, biological, and psychological, because each one needs a different answer.

We talk about external accountability, ADHD and task initiation, perfectionism, and the tendency to keep rebuilding the system when the system isn’t the problem. Cat also explains Immunity to Change, a framework for finding the hidden fears and assumptions that can keep one foot on the brake.

Then we get into shiny new objects and what we’re reading. Cat’s Bluetooth home phone may be the best solution I’ve heard for keeping a cell phone out of the bedroom without missing an important family call.

This episode of Focused is sponsored by:

• Keeper: Get 60% off personal and family plans.