In productivity, we worship efficiency. The fastest way to clear an inbox. The most automated way to track a project. The most frictionless method to organize our lives. I’m going to suggest something different. When it comes to your goals and plans, efficiency is…
Continue reading →Posts Tagged → productivity
The Shop Time Experiment
For several years now, I’ve been getting back into woodworking. It’s a hobby I love, but through 2024, I kept running into the same problem: I never felt like I was getting enough time in the shop to actually make things. During my regular…
Continue reading →On Teachers and the 2025 Productivity Academy
When I was a boy and first showed up for school, I was tested and found to be entirely … adequate. I wasn’t particularly sharp, but I was earnest. As such, I didn’t find myself in the “smart” classes with the “smart” kids. And yet……
Continue reading →OmniFocus Kanban Views
I often think that I must be unbearable to my developer friends. Sometimes I get the bit between my teeth on some pet feature and I just won’t shut up about it. But then again, sometimes that pays off.
Continue reading →The Seven-Year Rule
Years ago, I encountered a fascinating concept in a book by the Dalai Lama: every seven years, human beings transform into entirely new versions of themselves. This idea stems from the biological principle that our bodies replace virtually all their cells over a seven-year…
Continue reading →A Gentle Approach to Block Scheduling
In a few weeks, I’ll release the new 2025 edition of the Productivity Field Guide, where I blend ancient wisdom for life’s big questions with modern techniques for tactical execution. One key topic we explore is block scheduling, and something important I’ve learned from my…
Continue reading →Sparky‘s Happiness Formula
Over the past several years, I’ve spent a lot of time reading classic Hellenistic philosophy. I find those thinkers’ willingness to take on the big questions interesting. Because when it comes to thinking about philosophy, I’m practical. I couldn’t care less whether or not…
Continue reading →The Upcoming Productivity Field Guide Update
I want to explain a project I’ve been working on all year: An update to the Productivity Field Guide, due for release in January 2025. I have to admit that it makes me a little nervous. I’m in the process of releasing the new…
Continue reading →Lessons from An Ancient Craftsman
Here’s a recent post from the MacSparky Newsletter. If you haven’t already signed up, I’d appreciate it. Earlier this year, I had a chance to spend time in London, and I made a point to return to the British Museum. Specifically I was interested in…
Continue reading →The Productivity Summer Camp
Earlier this year, I released the Productivity Field Guide. It was successful and helped many people find some center in a world full of distractions. This summer, I’m pleased to announce the Productivity Summer Camp. I’ll be providing the Productivity Field Guide and a four-week…
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